Greater Quote by John Rawls
“The only thing that permits us to acquiesce in an erroneous theory is the lack of a better one, analogously, an injustice is tolerable only when it is necessary to avoid an even greater injustice.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A Theory of Justice, 1971
The quote argues that people accept a flawed theory only because no better alternative exists, and that an injustice is tolerated only when it prevents a greater one.
In simple terms: We accept bad ideas when no better ones are available, and tolerate injustice to avoid worse outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Seek better alternatives before accepting injustice.
Themes
ethics
political philosophy
justice
decision making
theory of knowledge
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy formation
- legal reform
- ethical debates
- education curricula
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
deontological ethics
social contract
moral reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- What constitutes a “greater” injustice?
- When is tolerating injustice acceptable?
A Different Perspective
It may justify harmful practices if perceived as preventing worse outcomes.
![“[T]he suppression of injustice with greater injustice only fuels righteous indignation, which will spread even if only maintained by a righteous few.” quote by Joel McDurmon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/96d/joel-mcdurmon-66761_justice_t-he-suppression-of-injustice-with-great_800929.jpg)
![“You have not been mistaken in supposing my views and feeling to be in favor of the abolition of war. Of my dispos[i]tion to maintain peace until its condition shall be made less tolerable than that of war itself, the world has had proofs, and more, perhaps, than it has approved. I hope it is…” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/77f/thomas-jefferson-43_abolition_you-have-not-been-mistaken-in-supposing_184816.jpg)
