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Importance Quote by Peter Singer

“If it is in our power to prevent something bad from happening, without thereby sacrificing anything of comparable moral importance, we ought, morally, to do it.” quote by Peter Singer
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“If it is in our power to prevent something bad from happening, without thereby sacrificing anything of comparable moral importance, we ought, morally, to do it.”

Peter Singer

About This Quote

Source Book: Practical Ethics, 1979

If we can prevent harm without comparable sacrifice, we have a moral duty to act.

In simple terms: Prevent harm when possible.

Key Takeaway

Act to prevent prevent harm

Themes

morality duty ethics

Mood

empathetic responsible

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • charitable giving
  • environmental action
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

utilitarianism humanitarianism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you prevent today?
  • How do you balance personal cost?
A Different Perspective

May conflict with personal priorities.

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