Meaning: The quote "Living with a conscience is like driving with the brakes on" by Budd Schulberg, an American screenwriter, novelist, and journalist, carries a profound and thought-provoking message about the impact of conscience on our actions and decisions. This powerful analogy likens the presence of a conscience to an inhibiting force that restrains our freedom and ability to act without restraint. Through this quote, Schulberg suggests that living with a strong sense of right and wrong can sometimes impede our progress and limit our choices.

At its core, the quote encapsulates the tension between ethical considerations and personal desires. It speaks to the internal conflict that arises when individuals are faced with decisions that challenge their moral compass. Schulberg's comparison of living with a conscience to driving with the brakes on vividly illustrates the notion of being held back or slowed down by a sense of guilt, responsibility, or moral obligation. This analogy encourages reflection on the ways in which our conscience can serve as a hindrance or a guiding force in our lives.

In the context of decision-making, the quote suggests that a strong conscience can act as a barrier that prevents us from fully embracing opportunities or pursuing our ambitions without reservation. It highlights the potential for internal moral dilemmas to act as constraints, causing individuals to proceed with caution and second-guess their choices. In this sense, Schulberg's quote serves as a reminder of the internal struggle that accompanies the pursuit of personal goals while maintaining a sense of ethical responsibility.

Moreover, the quote also raises questions about the nature of morality and the role of conscience in shaping our behavior. It prompts contemplation on whether the presence of a conscience should be viewed as a hindrance or a necessary safeguard against unethical actions. Schulberg's comparison invites individuals to consider the implications of living with a strong moral compass, acknowledging both its inhibiting effects and its capacity to steer us in the right direction.

From a philosophical standpoint, the quote delves into the complexities of human nature and the interplay between conscience and personal agency. It invites introspection on the ways in which our moral convictions influence our choices and the extent to which we allow them to dictate our actions. By likening the experience of living with a conscience to driving with the brakes on, Schulberg invites us to explore the nuances of ethical decision-making and the internal conflicts that arise when navigating the intersection of morality and personal freedom.

In summary, Budd Schulberg's quote "Living with a conscience is like driving with the brakes on" encapsulates the inherent tension between moral responsibility and personal autonomy. It serves as a poignant reminder of the internal struggle that individuals face when confronted with ethical dilemmas and the ways in which a strong conscience can impact our decision-making processes. By drawing a parallel between living with a conscience and driving with the brakes on, Schulberg prompts contemplation on the complexities of human morality and the interplay between ethical considerations and personal agency.