Ethics Quote by Max Allan Collins
““Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is the right thing to do.” Potter Stewart, Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court,””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Supreme Court remarks, 1970
Distinguishes legal rights from moral duties, urging ethical judgment beyond legality.
In simple terms: Know the difference between legal rights and moral rightness.
Choose moral rightness over mere legality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal practice
- personal dilemmas
- policy making
- public service
- leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you resolve conflicts between law and conscience?
- When should you prioritize ethics over legality?
Legal rights may conflict with moral duties, creating tension.