The benefit morality gives us is economy of time and effort. The damage it does is the complete paralysis of conscience.
道徳は便宜の異名である。

Writers & Literary Figures
Ryunosuke Akutagawa
Akutagawa Ryunosuke (1892-1927) was a Japanese master of the short story whose works 'Rashomon' and 'In a Grove' inspired Kurosawa's legendary film. Known for his psychological insight, intellectual precision, and darkly beautiful prose, his suicide at 35 symbolized the spiritual crisis of Taisho-era Japan. Japan's most prestigious literary prize bears his name.
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Ryunosuke Akutagawa's Other Quotes
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