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Said Arthur Quote by T.H. White

“I have been thinking,” said Arthur, “about Might and Right. I don’t think things ought to be done because you are able to do them. I think they should be done because you ought to do them.” quote by T.H. White
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““I have been thinking,” said Arthur, “about Might and Right. I don’t think things ought to be done because you are able to do them. I think they should be done because you ought to do them.””

T.H. White

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Once and Future King by T.H. White, 1958

Moral actions should be guided by duty, not merely by ability; ethical responsibility outweighs convenience.

In simple terms: Do what is right, not just what you can.

Key Takeaway

Act from principle, not capability.

Themes

ethics duty responsibility

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • personal dilemmas
  • public policy

Key Concepts

moral philosophy virtue ethics intentionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What duties guide your choices?
  • When does ability become an excuse?
A Different Perspective

Ability alone does not justify actions.

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