Meaning: The quote "All good is hard. All evil is easy. Dying, losing, cheating, and mediocrity is easy. Stay away from easy." by Scott Alexander, encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of human choices and actions. It speaks to the inherent challenges of doing what is right and good, as opposed to the temptations of taking the easy way out through unethical or dishonest means. This quote highlights the importance of making difficult choices and embracing the challenges of pursuing goodness and excellence.

In this quote, Scott Alexander suggests that the path of goodness and righteousness is inherently difficult. It requires effort, perseverance, and a willingness to face obstacles and adversity. Doing the right thing often involves making sacrifices, standing up for one's principles, and resisting the allure of shortcuts or unethical behavior. This can be a daunting and arduous task, especially in the face of external pressures and societal norms that may not always align with moral values.

Conversely, the quote suggests that evil or unethical actions are often the easier choice. Dying, losing, cheating, and settling for mediocrity are presented as the effortless alternatives to the difficult path of righteousness. This serves as a reminder that succumbing to negative impulses, giving in to dishonesty, or accepting a lesser standard of living may seem convenient in the short term, but ultimately leads to personal and moral decay.

By cautioning individuals to "stay away from easy," Alexander encourages a mindset of resilience, integrity, and determination. He emphasizes the importance of actively choosing the harder, but ultimately more fulfilling, path of goodness and ethical behavior. This message carries significant implications for personal growth, ethical decision-making, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life.

In a broader societal context, this quote serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in upholding moral values and ethical standards. It highlights the importance of resisting societal pressures, standing up against injustice, and advocating for what is right, even when it requires courage and tenacity. By promoting the idea that "all good is hard," the quote urges individuals to embrace the difficulties associated with doing the right thing, rather than succumbing to the allure of expedient but unethical choices.

Ultimately, Scott Alexander's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the inherent struggles and rewards of choosing the path of goodness and righteousness. It encourages individuals to resist the path of least resistance and instead embrace the challenges of ethical living, personal integrity, and the pursuit of excellence. By heeding this advice, individuals can strive to make a positive impact, both in their own lives and in the world around them, by choosing the harder but ultimately more fulfilling path of goodness and righteousness.