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Ends Quote by Leon Trotsky

“A means can be justified only by its end. But the end in its turn needs to be justified.” quote by Leon Trotsky
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“A means can be justified only by its end. But the end in its turn needs to be justified.”

Leon Trotsky

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Theory of Revolution, 1930

Means are justified only if the ends are justified, and ends must also be justified.

In simple terms: Means and ends must both be justified.

Key Takeaway

Question the morality of actions and goals.

Themes

ethics politics philosophy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • activism
  • strategic planning

Key Concepts

moral justification instrumental rationality

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are your means truly aligned with your ends?
  • How do you evaluate the justification of an end?
A Different Perspective

Ends can be rationalized after the fact.

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