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Always wrong Quote by Peter Singer

“Torturing a human being is almost always wrong, but it is not absolutely wrong.” quote by Peter Singer
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“Torturing a human being is almost always wrong, but it is not absolutely wrong.”

Peter Singer

About This Quote

Source Book: Practical Ethics, 1979

Moral evaluation of torture is context‑dependent, generally condemned but not universally absolute.

In simple terms: Torture is usually wrong, but not always.

Key Takeaway

Consider context, not just rules.

Themes

ethics human rights contextualism

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • war
  • interrogation
  • national security
  • legal debates

Key Concepts

moral philosophy utilitarianism

Questions to Reflect On

  • When might exceptions be justified?
  • How do we balance principles and outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Absolute moral rules may ignore complex realities.

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