If we only look far enough off for the consequence of our actions, we can always find some point in the combination of results by which those actions can be justified: by adopting the point of view of a Providence who arranges results, or of a philosopher who traces them, we shall find it possible to obtain perfect complacency in choosing to do what is most agreeable to us in the present moment.
In George Eliot's "The Mill on the Floss," the notion that one can justify their actions by considering their longer-term consequences is explored. The quote suggests that if we look beyond immediate results, we can find rationalizations for our choices. By adopting a broader perspective, whether that of a divine Providence or a philosophical observer, we can convince ourselves that our current desires are reasonable and justified.
This viewpoint highlights a psychological tendency where individuals prioritize personal gratification over moral considerations. It invites reflection on the moral implications of our choices and the ease with which we can rationalize behavior that may be self-serving, suggesting that a deeper understanding of consequences can lead to complacency in justifying actions that might otherwise seem questionable.
