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The Library
of Alexandria

Human, All Too Human, Part 68 summary

Part 68 of 152 · 1 min to read the part

In 68, the argument shows how results shape moral judgments, leading both observers and actors to mistake success for good intentions and failure for guilt. It then challenges the use of historical victory as proof of truth, contrasting Christianity’s triumph with the sciences’ connection to Epicurus.

What happens

  1. Observers and actors judge an action’s morality by its outcome because intentions remain unclear and results distort memory.
  2. Success makes intentions seem honorable, while failure burdens even worthy actions with guilt.
  3. A politician’s maxim presents success as a means of winning moral approval from others and oneself.
  4. The argument rejects Christianity’s victory over Greek philosophy as evidence of greater truth.
  5. The sciences’ connection to Epicurus contrasts with Christianity’s opposition to his philosophy.

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Which philosophy does the argument connect with the reviving sciences?

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