If goodness has causes, it is not goodness; if it has effects, a reward, it is not goodness either. So goodness is outside the chain of cause and effect.

Summary

This quote suggests that true goodness cannot be attributed to any specific cause or influenced by any expected outcome or reward. It implies that if goodness is driven by external factors or results, it loses its authenticity. The quote implies that true goodness is transcendent and exists independent of the cause and effect relationship that governs many other aspects of life. In essence, goodness is portrayed as something pure and untainted by the need for justification or reward.

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