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Action Quote by Richard Dawkins

“Evil…doesn’t mean doing things that have bad consequences for people. It means private thoughts and actions that are not to “the Christian majority’s” private liking.” quote by Richard Dawkins
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“Evil…doesn’t mean doing things that have bad consequences for people. It means private thoughts and actions that are not to “the Christian majority’s” private liking.”

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

Source Book: The God Del Delusion, 2006

Evil is defined by personal thoughts and actions contrary to majority religious preferences, not just harmful outcomes.

In simple terms: Evil is a subjective moral label.

Key Takeaway

Question the basis of moral judgments.

Themes

morality subjectivity religion ethics social norms

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • ethical debates
  • policy making
  • interfaith dialogue
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

moral relativism cognitive bias groupthink

Questions to Reflect On

  • What determines what is considered evil?
  • How do we balance majority views with individual rights?
A Different Perspective

Moral definitions can be culturally biased.

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