Hannah More: 'Depart from discretion when it interferes with duty.'

Depart from discretion when it interferes with duty.

In the realm of ethics and moral responsibility, Hannah More's quote, 'Depart from discretion when it interferes with duty,' carries profound meaning and importance. It urges individuals to prioritize their obligations and responsibilities over personal discretion or the pursuit of individual desires. By summarizing this quote in a straightforward manner, we understand that when there is a conflict between one's sense of discretion and the call of duty, it is imperative to set aside personal inclinations and prioritize the fulfillment of our obligations. However, delving deeper into this concept, we can explore a fascinating philosophical concept: the intersection between duty, discretion, and existentialism.Existentialism, often associated with philosophical giants like Sartre and Camus, centers around the idea of individual freedom and responsibility. It argues that human beings are not defined by predetermined qualities, but rather by their choices and actions. According to this philosophy, each person is ultimately responsible for their own life and must take ownership of their decisions. In this context, the quote by Hannah More aligns perfectly with existentialist thought. It acknowledges that while personal discretion holds value, it must not overshadow the duty-bound choices that shape our lives and impact others.When we examine the contrast between discretion and duty, it becomes apparent that the former represents individual agency and personal desires, while the latter signifies our moral responsibilities towards others and the larger society. Discretion grants us the freedom to make choices based on our subjective preferences, but it also entails a moral dilemma when these choices conflict with what is morally or ethically obligatory. This conflict exemplifies the essence of Hannah More's quote—that duty should supersede personal discretion in such situations.Consider a scenario where a person with a promising career opportunity finds themselves torn between accepting a prestigious position that aligns with their passion and choosing a less desirable job that allows them to care for a sick family member. Personal discretion might prioritize one's own aspirations and success, but duty to family recognizes the importance of supporting a loved one in need. In this case, departing from discretion becomes necessary to fulfill the moral responsibility imposed by familial obligations.However, it is important to note that the departure from discretion does not imply complete abandonment or denial of personal desires. Rather, it is an acknowledgment that there are instances when duty compels us to put the needs of others or the greater good above our individual pursuits. By recognizing and acting upon our responsibilities, we exercise our agency in fulfilling our duties, paving the path towards personal growth while contributing to the welfare of society.This concept of departing from discretion when it interferes with duty poses a fundamental challenge to individuals, as it requires a critical examination of our actions and priorities. It necessitates introspection, urging us to question whether our choices align with our moral obligations. With the moral compass as our guide, we must navigate the intricate web of discretion and duty, ensuring that we strike a balance that prioritizes the welfare of others without entirely forgoing our personal fulfillment.In conclusion, Hannah More's quote resonates strongly in its call for departure from discretion when it interferes with duty. By prioritizing moral responsibilities over individual desires, we not only embrace the existentialist notion of individual responsibility but also contribute positively to society. Understanding the contrast between discretion and duty enables us to navigate the complexities of life, making choices that incorporate personal agency while fulfilling our moral obligations. So, let us embark on this journey of self-reflection, constantly striving for the delicate equilibrium between what we want for ourselves and what we owe to the world around us.