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God is the creator of all things, right? He is the force that dictates the laws of the universe, and is therefore the ultimate source of ethics. He is absolute morality... We claim to be doing good. But the Lord Ruler - as God - defines what is good. So by opposing him we're actually evil. But since he's doing the wrong thing, does evil actually count as good in this case?
Brandon Sanderson
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote explores the complexities of morality through the lens of a god-like figure's absolute authority over good and evil.

In this quote, Brandon Sanderson presents a philosophical dilemma regarding morality and the nature of good and evil. He suggests that if God is the ultimate source of morality, then opposing His definition of good may lead to actions being perceived as evil, even if those actions seem justified from a human perspective. This raises questions about the nature of ethics and whether moral actions can be considered good or evil based solely on divine dictates, especially when those dictates appear flawed.

Themes

MoralityEthicsGodGoodEvilPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

In a philosophy class discussing ethical dilemmas.

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Every action we take has consequences, Vin," Kelsier said. "I've found that in both Allomancy and life, the person who can best judge the consequences of their actions will be the most successful.
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Quote by Brandon Sanderson | QuoteProject