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About this quote

What does it mean?
People justify necessary actions with positive labels.
In plain terms
We do what we must and call it good.
What can you take from it?
Labels often justify actions.

Where it applies

  • ethical dilemmas
  • self perception

Putting it to work

  • examine your labels
  • align words with acts

Questions to consider

  • What do you call your actions?
  • Do your names match your deeds?

Another view

This can enable self deception.

More from Ralph Waldo Emerson

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  3. The Indian who was laid under a curse, that the wind should not blow on him, nor water flow to him, nor fire burn him, is a type of us all. The dearest events …

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