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Birth Quote by Ursula K. Le Guin

“If we can get that realistic feminine morality working for us, if we can trust ourselves and so let women think and feel that an unwanted child or an oversize family is wrong -- not ethically wrong, not against the rules, but morally wrong, all wrong, wrong like a thalidomide birth, wrong like…” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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“If we can get that realistic feminine morality working for us, if we can trust ourselves and so let women think and feel that an unwanted child or an oversize family is wrong -- not ethically wrong, not against the rules, but morally wrong, all wrong, wrong like a thalidomide birth, wrong like taking a wrong step that will break your neck -- if we can get feminine and human morality out from under the yoke of a dead ethic, then maybe we'll begin to get somewhere on the road that leads to survival.”

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Left Hand of Darkness, 1969

She argues that redefining morality beyond traditional ethics could guide humanity toward survival, especially regarding reproductive choices and family size.

In simple terms: New moral frameworks may help humanity survive.

Key Takeaway

Consider redefining morality for survival.

Themes

ethics survival gender reproductive rights

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • family planning
  • public health
  • environmental sustainability

Key Concepts

moral philosophy social evolution bioethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance new moral perspectives with existing traditions?
  • What risks arise when moral frameworks change rapidly?
A Different Perspective

Moral shifts may clash with entrenched cultural norms.

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