John Cheever: 'Wisdom we know is the knowledge of good and evil, not the strength to choose between the two.'

Wisdom we know is the knowledge of good and evil, not the strength to choose between the two.

John Cheever once said, 'Wisdom we know is the knowledge of good and evil, not the strength to choose between the two.' At first glance, this quote may seem straightforward. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between right and wrong, and suggests that wisdom lies in recognizing this knowledge. However, the true significance of this quote can be unlocked by delving into a contrasting philosophical concept known as moral relativism.On the surface, Cheever's quote suggests that wisdom involves recognizing and discerning between good and evil. It implies that wisdom is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but rather about understanding the fundamental distinction between right and wrong. In this sense, it highlights the significance of moral judgment and ethical decision-making as essential components of wisdom.However, when we introduce the concept of moral relativism, an intriguing contrast emerges. Moral relativism posits that ethical truths are not absolute, but rather dependent on individual perspectives, cultural norms, or personal beliefs. According to this viewpoint, moral judgments cannot be universally applied, as they vary across different societies and individuals.This leads us to question whether the knowledge of good and evil can truly be considered wisdom if moral relativism is taken into account. If there is no absolute right or wrong, how can wisdom be derived from the knowledge of good and evil? Is wisdom then nothing more than a personal or societal construct, subject to constant reinterpretation?It is when we explore this philosophical dichotomy that the quote by Cheever gains new dimensions. Perhaps he was suggesting that wisdom is not solely dependent on the ability to choose between good and evil, but rather on the capacity to recognize the existence of these concepts despite their relativity. In other words, wisdom lies not in having the strength to make the right choice, but in acknowledging the fundamental distinction between good and evil, accepting that they are subjective and diverse.Therefore, Cheever's quote alludes to the idea that wisdom encompasses an understanding of the complexities inherent in moral judgments. It requires us to exercise open-mindedness and empathy, while also being aware of our own biases and limitations. Wisdom is not just about making the 'right' choice, but about cultivating a deeper awareness of the ethical dilemmas we face and navigating them with conscientiousness.In a world where moral values and ethical frameworks vary widely, Cheever's quote reminds us of the importance of moral discernment. It encourages us to strive for wisdom by engaging in thoughtful reflection and critical thinking, rather than blindly adhering to societal norms or personal biases.Ultimately, this quote prompts us to ponder the nature of wisdom itself. It challenges us to question whether wisdom can truly exist if moral relativism is allowed to shape our perceptions. Perhaps wisdom lies not only in the knowledge of good and evil, but also in the humility to recognize the limitations of our understanding and the courage to constantly seek deeper insights.In conclusion, John Cheever's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder that wisdom expands beyond the mere knowledge of good and evil. It urges us to embrace the complexities of moral relativism while seeking a deeper understanding of ethical dilemmas. By doing so, we can navigate the murky waters of right and wrong with greater empathy, open-mindedness, and ultimately, wisdom.