Abraham Lincoln: 'When I do good I feel good, when I do bad I feel bad, and that's my religion.'

When I do good I feel good, when I do bad I feel bad, and that's my religion.

Abraham Lincoln once said, "When I do good I feel good, when I do bad I feel bad, and that's my religion." At first glance, his words may appear simple and straightforward, but delving deeper into their meaning reveals a profound philosophy that goes beyond the confines of conventional religion. This quote encapsulates the idea that one's moral compass, conscience, and inner sense of right and wrong are the driving forces behind their actions and, ultimately, their happiness. It emphasizes the intrinsic connection between our deeds and our emotional well-being. However, let us now explore an unexpected philosophical concept that brings an added layer of complexity to Lincoln's statement – the interplay between ethics and subjective morality.Before we dig deeper into this concept, let us first understand the importance of Lincoln's quote. He suggests that there is an innate satisfaction derived from doing good and a sense of unease that accompanies acts of wrongdoing. This linkage between actions and emotions provides individuals with a compass to navigate their behavior, one that extends beyond the boundaries of organized religion. Lincoln's words highlight the significance of personal responsibility and ethical consciousness, indicating that it is within our power to shape our experiences of joy and remorse through the choices we make.Now, let us delve further into the unexpected philosophical concept that adds intrigue to Lincoln's quote – the interplay between ethics and subjective morality. Ethics, often associated with objective principles of right and wrong, provide a framework for evaluating actions based on universal moral standards. It is a system that society often relies on to guide individuals' behavior and maintain order. However, subjective morality asserts that right and wrong are contingent upon an individual's personal beliefs, upbringing, and cultural context.By bringing this concept into the discussion, we can explore how Lincoln's quote not only reflects personal ethics but also acknowledges the subjectivity of morality. The emotional response that Lincoln speaks of is intrinsically tied to the individual's moral code – a code that is shaped by their unique blend of experiences, cultural background, and personal beliefs. Therefore, what one person perceives as good or bad may differ from another's interpretation.This nuanced perspective sheds light on the complexity of human nature, suggesting that the relationship between actions and emotions is not solely governed by objective standards but is deeply influenced by personal convictions. Lincoln's statement acknowledges that the feeling of fulfillment or dissatisfaction resulting from our deeds is rooted in our individual moral framework, which is shaped by subjective experiences and interpretations of right and wrong.However, this exploration into the interplay between ethics and subjective morality should not undermine the importance of societal norms and universally accepted ethical standards. While subjectivity plays a role in individual morality, it is through a collective agreement on shared values that we maintain social cohesion and harmony. An individual's personal moral compass, although shaped by subjective experiences, should also align with the overarching principles that guide our interactions with others.In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln's quote, "When I do good I feel good, when I do bad I feel bad, and that's my religion," encapsulates a profound philosophy that transcends traditional religious boundaries. It emphasizes the intrinsic connection between our actions and emotional well-being. This quote not only implies personal responsibility and ethical awareness but also invites us to ponder the interplay between ethics and subjective morality. It highlights the complex relationship between individual moral frameworks and the universal principles that underpin social cohesion. Ultimately, Lincoln's words prompt us to reflect on the power of our actions and the impact they have on our emotions, both individually and collectively.