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Action Quote by Stephen King

“But who can foresee such things? None of us can predict the final outcomes of our actions, and few of us even try; most of us just do what we do to prolong a moment's pleasure or to stop the pain. And even when we act for the noblest reasons, the last link of the chain all too often drips with…” quote by Stephen King
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“But who can foresee such things? None of us can predict the final outcomes of our actions, and few of us even try; most of us just do what we do to prolong a moment's pleasure or to stop the pain. And even when we act for the noblest reasons, the last link of the chain all too often drips with someone's blood.”

Stephen King

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Stand, 1978

People act for short‑term pleasure or pain avoidance, often overlooking long‑term consequences.

In simple terms: We chase immediate relief, ignoring future effects.

Key Takeaway

Consider long‑term impact.

Themes

pleasure pain consequences

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical psychological

When to use this quote

  • Decision making
  • risk assessment
  • addiction recovery
  • policy design

Key Concepts

Behavioral economics ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What short‑term desire drives your biggest decisions?
  • How can you balance immediate comfort with future wellbeing?
A Different Perspective

It may overgeneralize human behavior.

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