Active Evil is better than Passive Good.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Blake argues that active evil—taking decisive harmful action—is preferable to passive good—inaction.
- In plain terms
- Doing evil actively is better than doing nothing good.
- What can you take from it?
- Consider the consequences of inaction versus harmful action.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is inaction more harmful than harmful action?
- Can active evil ever be justified?
Another view
The claim is provocative and ignores the value of positive action.
More from William Blake
Forgiveness of enemies can only come upon their repentance.
Permalink to quote #33 They suppose that Woman's Love is Sin; in consequence all the Loves & Graces with them are Sin.
Permalink to quote #35 True superstition is ignorant honesty & this is beloved of god and man.
Permalink to quote #32
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