This statement emphasizes the idea that an individual's personal feelings are paramount when making ethical decisions. It suggests that if something feels right or pleasurable to a person, they should pursue it, reflecting a humanist perspective on ethics. This viewpoint places subjective experience at the center of moral considerations.
On a deeper level, this quote challenges traditional notions of morality by shifting the focus from societal norms and religious doctrines to personal intuition and emotional responses. It advocates for a form of ethical relativism where individual experiences and feelings are seen as the ultimate guideposts in determining what is right or wrong. This perspective can lead to a diverse range of moral frameworks, as different individuals might experience situations differently and therefore make varying judgments based on their unique perceptions. However, this approach also invites questions about the reliability and consistency of such subjective guidelines when making ethical decisions.
The quote is attributed to Yuval Noah Harari, an Israeli historian and author renowned for his works that explore human history from a scientific and philosophical standpoint. His books, including "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" and "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow," delve into complex topics such as the nature of humanity, technology's impact on society, and the future of life itself. Harari’s writings often challenge conventional wisdom and provoke thought about how we understand our world and ourselves.
