A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
I know the two great commandments, and I'd better get on with them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of acting on moral principles rather than merely knowing them.
C. S. Lewis highlights the value of translating knowledge into action, specifically in relation to ethical or moral commandments. Recognizing the essential tenets of behavior is not enough; one must actively strive to embody these principles in daily life to truly fulfill them.
Themes
CommandmentsActionMoralityPrinciplesEthics
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about ethical leadership.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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I do not preach doubtingly, for I do not live doubtingly.
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'And how, who am I? I will remember, if I can! I'm determined to do it!' But being determined didn't help much.
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