Home / Quotes / Quote by Idries Shah

Quote by Idries Shah

“You are still adrift while you still think that a means is an end.”

Work

Reflections is a compilation of reflective pieces, likely exploring themes of introspection, personal growth, and philosophical musings. more

Author

Idries Shah

Idries Shah was a renowned author known for his dissemination of Eastern philosophy and wisdom. His works blend Sufism, Eastern mysticism, and Western philosophy, aiming to promote human wisdom and inner growth. Shah's books include 'The Sufi Path of Love' and 'The Power of Silence'. more

“If I want to deprive you of your watch, I shall certainly have to fight for it; if I want to buy your watch, I shall have to pay for it; and if I want a gift, I shall have to plead for it; and, according to the means I employ, the watch is stolen property, my own property, or a donation. Thus we see three different results from three different means. Will you still say that the means do not matter?”

Behavior Method Means And Ends

Book:Non-Violent Resistance

Source: Non-Violent Resistance

“The means are inconsequential, only the ends matter”

Target Means And Ends

Author:Rita Stradling

“...[I]f I know that it is only by this process that the intended operation can be performed, then to say that if I fully will the operation, I also will the action required for it, is an analytical proposition...”

Intentions Ramifications Means And Ends

Book:Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals

Source: Fundamental Principles of the Metaphysic of Morals

“When we had no means, we said the end justifies the means. Now that we have no ends, we say the means justify the end. Neither is immoral. What is entirely immoral is that there is no longer any contradiction between the two: ends and means have become indifferent to one another. They are quite simply no longer of the same order.”