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Avert Quote by Maimonides

“The second class of evils comprises such evils as people cause to each other, when, e.g. , some of them use their strength against others. These evils are more numerous than those of the first kind... they likewise originate in ourselves, though the sufferer himself cannot avert them.” quote by Maimonides
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“The second class of evils comprises such evils as people cause to each other, when, e.g. , some of them use their strength against others. These evils are more numerous than those of the first kind... they likewise originate in ourselves, though the sufferer himself cannot avert them.”

Maimonides

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Mishneh Torah, Book of Justice, 12th century

Harmful actions caused by misuse of power are more common than overt wrongdoing, and they stem from human nature.

In simple terms: Abuse of strength creates many evils.

Key Takeaway

Guard against misuse of power.

Themes

ethics justice human nature

Mood

thoughtful serious reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • law enforcement
  • interpersonal conflict
  • community governance

Key Concepts

power dynamics social responsibility moral psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent abuse?
  • How do we recognize subtle harms?
A Different Perspective

Power can be checked by accountability measures.

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