“To prefer evil to good is not in human nature; and when a man is compelled to choose one of two evils, no one will choose the greater when he might have the less.”
- 427 BC – 347 BC
- Born in Athens, ancient Greece
- Philosopher, scholar, founder of the Academy
- A student of Socrates, his works include “The Republic” and “The Symposium,” and he had a major influence on Western philosophy with his ideas and philosopher-rulership.
Quote
“To prefer evil to good is not in human nature; and when a man is compelled to choose one of two evils, no one will choose the greater when he might have the less.”
Explanation
In this quote, Plato argues that humans inherently prefer good over evil and are motivated by a desire to avoid greater harm whenever possible. The statement reflects the basic moral instinct that drives individuals to choose the lesser of two evils when faced with difficult decisions. It suggests that even in situations where people must make undesirable choices, their natural inclination is to minimize harm and opt for the lesser evil, demonstrating a fundamental desire to protect themselves from greater suffering.
This perspective is rooted in Plato’s belief in the good as an ultimate standard and his understanding of human nature as guided by reason and a desire for well-being. In ancient Greece, this idea would have resonated with the prevailing philosophical views that saw the pursuit of virtue and the avoidance of vice as central to human flourishing. Plato, through his dialogues, often explored the tension between right and wrong and the choices individuals face in a world where perfect justice may not always be attainable.
In contemporary society, the idea remains relevant when we confront moral dilemmas or make decisions in complex situations. The concept of choosing the lesser evil can be seen in politics, ethics, and everyday life, where individuals and leaders must make difficult decisions that balance competing interests. For instance, in cases of social policy or warfare, leaders are often forced to make choices between two negative outcomes, and this quote reminds us that human nature leans toward making choices that minimize harm, even in the face of unavoidable challenges.
