Single Idea 24110

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / i. Absolute virtues]

Full Idea

There are actions that we will never allow ourselves to engage in, not even as a means to the noblest end e.g., betraying a friend.

Gist of Idea

Some things we would never do, even for the highest ideals

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (Unpublished Notebooks 1882-84 [1883], 7[241])

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'Fragments from the period of 'Zarathustra' (v 14)', ed/tr. Loeb/Tinsley [Stanford 2019], p.283


A Reaction

Jean Genet made a point of betraying his friends. I wonder why Nietzsche thinks we should not betray our friends? Being Nietzsche, he will certainly have asked the question.