Erring Quote by Mark Twain
“Moralists and philosophers have adjudged those who throw temptation in the way of the erring, equally guilty with those who are thereby led into evil”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, possibly public lecture, 19th century
Temptation set by others can be as blameworthy as the evil it leads to, highlighting shared responsibility for moral outcomes.
In simple terms: Both the temptor and the tempted share guilt.
Key Takeaway
Avoid creating temptations for others.
Themes
responsibility
morality
temptation
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- parenting
- law enforcement
- education
Key Concepts
ethics
free will
Questions to Reflect On
- Who is more accountable for wrongdoing, the influencer or the follower?
- How can societies reduce harmful temptations?
A Different Perspective
Temptors may argue they are merely presenting choices.
![“[T]he moralists of Europe [have] pretended that beasts have no rights... a doctrine revolting/gross/barbarous... on which a native of the Asiatic uplands could not look without righteous horror...” quote by Arthur Schopenhauer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/178/arthur-schopenhauer-226_animal_t-he-moralists-of-europe-have-pretended_646569.jpg)
