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The end doesn't justify the means.
Ovid
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The morality of actions should be judged by their nature, not just by their outcomes.

This quote from Ovid emphasizes the importance of ethics in our actions. It suggests that achieving a goal does not excuse unethical behavior or means used to get there, highlighting a fundamental principle in moral philosophy that the ends do not warrant the means if those means are unjust or immoral.

Themes

EthicsMoralityEndsMeansPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

During a debate on ethical leadership, this quote can be used to stress the importance of integrity.

More from Ovid

We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
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All things human hang by a slender thread; and that which seemed to stand strong suddenly falls and sinks in ruins.
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A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
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Fas est ab hoste doceri._x000D_ One should learn even from one's enemies.
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Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
OvidRead
Most safely shall you tread the middle path.
OvidRead

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