"Force and mind are opposites; morality ends where a gun begins"
- Ayn Rand
About this Quote
This quote by Ayn Rand speaks with the concept that morality and violence are incompatible. She suggests that when violence is utilized, morality is no longer suitable. This is since violence is a type of force, which is the reverse of using the mind. The quote indicates that when violence is used, it is no longer possible to utilize ethical thinking to resolve a conflict. Instead, using force is the only choice. This is why Rand recommends that morality ends where a gun begins. Simply put, when violence is utilized, morality is no longer relevant. This quote speaks to the idea that violence ought to be prevented whenever possible, as it is incompatible with morality.
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