Absolutes Quote by John Stuart Mill
“Though it is only in a very imperfect state of the world's arrangements that anyone can best serve the happiness of others by the absolute sacrifice of his own, yet, so long as the world is in that imperfect state, I fully acknowledge that the readiness to make such a sacrifice is the highest virtue which can be found in man.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Utilitarianism, John Stuart Mill, 1863
The highest moral virtue is the willingness to sacrifice oneself for others while the world remains imperfect.
In simple terms: Self‑sacrifice for others is the greatest virtue in an imperfect world.
Key Takeaway
Embrace self‑sacrifice when needed.
Themes
ethics
virtue
altruism
human nature
philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- war
- social work
- family caregiving
- environmental activism
Key Concepts
Utilitarianism
moral philosophy
selflessness
Questions to Reflect On
- What sacrifices are you willing to make for others?
- How can societies support altruistic actions?
A Different Perspective
Self‑sacrifice may be unsustainable without systemic change.
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