Meaning: The quote "Of two evils, the less is always to be chosen" is attributed to Thomas Kempis, a German-Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period. This quote encapsulates a timeless moral and ethical principle that has been applied in various contexts throughout history.

At its core, the quote speaks to the concept of choosing between two unfavorable options and advocating for selecting the lesser of the two evils. This principle is deeply rooted in moral philosophy and decision-making processes. It acknowledges that in certain situations, individuals may be faced with choices where both options are undesirable or morally compromised. In such cases, the quote advises to opt for the option that causes the least harm or has the smallest negative impact.

One interpretation of this quote is that it reflects a pragmatic approach to decision-making. It recognizes that life is often filled with difficult choices and compromises, and that in such situations, it may be necessary to prioritize minimizing harm or negative consequences. This aligns with ethical theories such as utilitarianism, which emphasizes the importance of maximizing overall well-being and minimizing suffering.

The quote also touches upon the concept of moral relativism, acknowledging that ethical dilemmas are not always black and white. It suggests that the morality of an action should be evaluated within the context of the specific circumstances, and that sometimes the "right" decision may not be ideal, but rather the one with the least negative impact.

In a broader sense, the quote can be applied to various aspects of life, from personal decision-making to public policy and governance. It encourages individuals and leaders to carefully consider the consequences of their choices and to prioritize minimizing harm, even in challenging or complex situations.

From a historical perspective, the principle of choosing the lesser of two evils has been a recurring theme in political and moral discourse. It has been invoked in discussions about war, diplomacy, and crisis management, where decision-makers are often confronted with difficult choices and trade-offs. The quote's relevance extends to contemporary issues such as ethical business practices, environmental policy, and social justice, where the complexities of decision-making are ever-present.

In summary, the quote "Of two evils, the less is always to be chosen" encapsulates a timeless moral principle that emphasizes the importance of minimizing harm and choosing the least negative option when faced with difficult choices. It reflects a pragmatic and nuanced approach to decision-making, acknowledging the complexities of moral dilemmas and the need to carefully consider the consequences of our actions. This quote continues to resonate across various domains, serving as a guiding principle for ethical decision-making and moral reasoning.