Skip to content

Good deed Quote by Salman Rushdie

“It seems there is no such thing as a purely good deed, a completely right action. Even this task, which i took on for the very best of reasons, involves making choices that are not that "good", choices that might even be "wrong".” quote by Salman Rushdie
Download Open image
““It seems there is no such thing as a purely good deed, a completely right action. Even this task, which i took on for the very best of reasons, involves making choices that are not that "good", choices that might even be "wrong".””

Salman Rushdie

About This Quote

Source Novel: Midnight's Children, 1981

Good actions often contain mixed motives and unintended consequences, blurring moral clarity.

In simple terms: Even good deeds can have questionable aspects.

Key Takeaway

Recognize moral complexity in decisions.

Themes

ethics morality intent complexity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal choices
  • political policy
  • charitable work
  • business decisions

Key Concepts

utilitarianism moral ambiguity consequentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden motives might influence your “good” actions?
  • How do you evaluate the net impact of a deed?
A Different Perspective

Assuming any act is wholly pure can ignore hidden harms.

4.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Salman Rushdie

Explore all 1,087 Salman Rushdie quotes

More Good deed quotes

Browse all 131 Good deed quotes