In fact we say that an intention is good, that is, right in itself, but that an action does not bear any good in itself but proceeds from a good intention. Whence when the same thing is done by the same man at different times, by the diversity of his intention, however, his action is now said to be good, now bad.
Bonam quippe intentionem, hoc est, rectam in se dicimus, operationem vero non quod boni aliquid in se suscipiat, sed quod ex bona intentione procedat. Unde et ab eodem homine cum in diversis temporibus idem fiat, pro diversitate tamen intentione eius operatio modo bono modo mala dicitur.
Peter Abelard (1079-1142) French philosopher, theologian, logician [Pierre Abélard]
Ethics [Ethica], Book 1 [tr. Luscombe (1971)]
Quotations by:
Abelard, Peter
We do not easily think ill of those whom we love most, and the taint of suspicion cannot exist along with warm affection.
[Non enim facile de his quos plurimum diligimus turpitudinem suspicamur, nec in vehementi dilectione turpis suspitionis labes potest inesse.]
Peter Abelard (1079-1142) French philosopher, theologian, logician [Pierre Abélard]
Historia Calamitatum Mearum [The Story of My Misfortunes], ch. 6 (1132) [tr. Radice (1974)]
(Source)
On how Heloise' uncle, Fulbert, had no suspicion of her romantic relationship with Abelard.
(Source (Latin)). Alternate translation:Indeed we do not easily suspect shame in those whom we most cherish, nor can there be the blot of foul suspicion on devoted love.
[tr. Bellows (1922)]
The first half of the sentence is most commonly quoted. Other variants include:
- "For it is not easy to suspect vileness in those whom we love most."
- "For we do not easily expect evil of those whom we love most."
Constant and frequent questioning is the first key to wisdom. … For through doubting we are led to inquire, and by inquiry we perceive the truth.
[Prima sapientiae clavis definitur, assidua scilicet seu frequens interrogatio … Dubitando enim ad inquisitionem venimus; inquirendo veritatem percipimus.]
Peter Abelard (1079-1142) French philosopher, theologian, logician [Pierre Abélard]
Sic et Non, Prolog [tr. Graves (1918)]