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Crimes are not to be measured by the issue of events, but by the bad intentions of men.
Marcus Tullius Cicero
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that the morality of actions should be judged based on the intentions behind them rather than the outcomes.

Cicero emphasizes that the ethical implications of crimes stem from the malicious intent of individuals rather than merely the consequences of their actions. It implies that a good outcome from a bad intention does not absolve immoral behavior, thereby inviting a deeper reflection on the nature of justice and morality.

Themes

IntentionsCrimeMoralityPhilosophyEthics

In practice

Example use cases

A lawyer could use this quote to stress the importance of intent in a courtroom setting.

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