Character Quote by Peter Kreeft
““Furthermore, the most popular modern answer to the question of what it means to be a good person is to be kind. Do not make other people suffer. If it doesn’t hurt anyone, it’s O.K. By this standard, God is not good it he lets us suffer. But by ancient standards, God might be good even though he lets us suffer, if he does it for the sake of the greater end of happiness, perfection of life and character and soul, that is, self.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Philosophy of Love by Peter Kreeft, 1995
Goodness is judged by kindness and avoidance of causing suffering; modern views see this as sufficient, while ancient views allow suffering for a higher purpose.
In simple terms: Being kind and not causing harm defines goodness today; ancient views permit suffering for greater good.
Key Takeaway
Consider the balance between kindness and higher purpose.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
theology
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- policy making
- education
- community leadership
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
teleology
theodicy
Questions to Reflect On
- What higher purposes justify suffering?
- How do we balance kindness with greater good?
A Different Perspective
Modern emphasis on immediate kindness may ignore long‑term moral goals.
