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Accepting Quote by P. J. O'Rourke

“There is only one basic human right: the right to do as you please, without causing others harm. With it comes our only basic human duty: the duty to accept the consequences of our actions.” quote by P. J. O'Rourke
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“There is only one basic human right: the right to do as you please, without causing others harm. With it comes our only basic human duty: the duty to accept the consequences of our actions.”

P. J. O'Rourke

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Right to Do as You Please, 1995

A basic human right is freedom to act without harming others, paired with the duty to own the outcomes of those actions.

In simple terms: Freedom to act responsibly.

Key Takeaway

Act freely but accept responsibility.

Themes

freedom responsibility ethics

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • public policy
  • interpersonal relationships
  • legal judgments

Key Concepts

human rights consequences moral duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal liberty with societal harm?
  • When should consequences be enforced?
A Different Perspective

Freedom can conflict with collective safety; limits may be needed.

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