I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
I am for those means which will give the greatest good to the greatest number.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a utilitarian perspective where actions should aim to benefit the majority.
Abraham Lincoln's quote encapsulates the essence of utilitarianism, suggesting that the morality of an action is determined by its outcome, specifically that actions should be evaluated based on their ability to produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. This philosophy emphasizes collective well-being and the importance of considering the impact of decisions on society as a whole.
Themes
UtilitarianismGreatest GoodMoralitySocietyWell-Being
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social policies, one might say, 'As Lincoln once stated, we should aim for the greatest good to the greatest number.'
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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