Evil Quote by Margaret Mead
“It may be necessary temporarily to accept a lesser evil, but one must never label a necessary evil as good.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Coming of Age in Samoa, 1928
Temporary acceptance of a lesser evil is permissible, but never label it as good.
In simple terms: Accept bad temporarily, but don’t call it good.
Key Takeaway
Distinguish necessity from virtue.
Themes
ethics
morality
decision making
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political compromise
- business ethics
- personal dilemmas
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
principles
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria determine a “lesser evil”?
- How can we prevent necessary evils from becoming normalized?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term compromises can erode long‑term values.
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