Argument Quote by Isabel Paterson
“But when the good people do know, as they certainly do, that three million persons (at the least estimate) were starved to death in one year by the methods they approve, why do they still fraternize with the murderers and support the measures? Because they have been told that the lingering death of the three millions might ultimately benefit a greater number. The argument applies equally well to cannibalism.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Cost of Compassion, 1935
People justify supporting harmful policies by claiming the suffering of a few benefits many, a rationale that can be applied to extreme cases like cannibalism.
In simple terms: People excuse bad actions by saying they help the many.
Key Takeaway
Question the moral logic behind sacrificing few for many.
Themes
ethics
politics
justice
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- humanitarian aid
- public health crises
- war decisions
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
moral relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it acceptable to sacrifice a minority?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of utilitarian arguments?
A Different Perspective
Such reasoning can ignore individual rights and lead to atrocities.
