The end must justify the means.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The outcome of an action justifies the methods used to achieve it.
- In plain terms
- If the result is good, the methods used to get it are acceptable.
- What can you take from it?
- Results validate the methods used to achieve them.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does a good outcome excuse bad methods?
- Who decides what is justified?
Another view
It can be used to excuse immoral actions if the result is positive.
More from Matthew Prior
Our hopes, like towering falcons, aim At objects in an airy height; The little pleasure of the game Is from afar to view the flight.
Permalink to quote #1 Lays the rough paths of peevish Nature even, And opens in each heart a little heaven.
Permalink to quote #3 Be to her virtues very kind; Be to her faults a little blind; Let all her ways be unconfined; And clap your padlock - on her mind!
Permalink to quote #4
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