Reason Quote by Leo Tolstoy
““Reason is often the slave of sin; it strives to justify it.””
About This Quote
Source Book: War and Peace, 1869
Reason can be twisted to excuse wrongdoing, showing morality can be compromised by rationalization.
In simple terms: Reason can justify sin.
Key Takeaway
Question your motives when rationalizing.
Themes
morality
reason
justification
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal defense
- personal guilt
- political propaganda
- moral dilemmas
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you guard against rationalizing bad actions?
- When does justification become denial?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone cannot guarantee ethical behavior.
![“I don't like being away from home. That's one reason why I don't work as much as I used to [when I started my career], because so many things are on the road. I just don't want to be away from my husband, my dogs and my home. I don't sing that much any more because that also takes you on the road.” quote by Jane Powell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/07c/jane-powell-36243_away_i-don-t-like-being-away-from-home-that-s_278.jpg)
