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About this quote

What does it mean?
Before acting, consider if your actions will harm others more than absolutely necessary. This is a simple moral guideline.
In plain terms
Think about whether your actions will hurt someone else more than needed before you do them.
What can you take from it?
Minimize harm to others when deciding what to do.

Where it applies

  • making difficult choices
  • considering consequences
  • interpersonal conflicts

Putting it to work

  • pause before acting
  • assess impact on others
  • choose least harmful option

Questions to consider

  • Who might be affected by your choice?
  • Is the harm necessary for the outcome?

Another view

Sometimes preventing harm to one person may require harming another.

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