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, 1958–1981. Section 5, Grave 40-2, Arlington National Cemetery.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart, 1970s interview
Ethics distinguishes legal rights from moral righteousness, urging actions that align with higher moral standards.
In simple terms: Know the difference between legal rights and moral duties.
Key Takeaway
Act according to what is right, not just what is allowed.
Themes
ethics
law
morality
justice
rights
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
legal
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business decisions
- personal conduct
- public service
Key Concepts
philosophy
legal theory
civic responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When do you prioritize moral duty over legal entitlement?
- How can societies reconcile law and morality?
A Different Perspective
Legal rights may conflict with moral duties, creating dilemmas.
![“Rick: Can you swim? Evelyn: Well, of course I can swim if the occasion calls for it. Rick: [throwing her overboard] Trust me. It calls for it.” quote by Max Allan Collins](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e52/max-allan-collins-17045_occasions_rick-can-you-swim-evelyn-well-of-course_888075.jpg)
