This quote suggests that being ethical is not merely about following the rules or doing the bare minimum that is required of us. Rather, it involves going beyond our duties and responsibilities, and acting in a way that promotes the well-being of others, even when we are not obliged to do so. At the same time, it also means refraining from actions that might be permissible, but could potentially cause harm or discomfort to others.

The first part of the quote, “The ethical person should do more than he is required to do,” emphasizes the proactive aspect of ethics. It’s about doing good deeds, not because we have to, but because it’s the right thing to do. This involves acts of kindness, generosity, and consideration that exceed our normal obligations.

The second part of the quote, “and less than he is allowed to,” underscores the restraint aspect of ethics. Just because something is allowed or isn’t explicitly forbidden doesn’t mean it’s ethical. This part of the quote reminds us to exercise discretion and consider the potential impact of our actions on others, even if those actions are technically within our rights.

Applied to today’s world, this quote could be a call for more active engagement in social issues and for more empathy and consideration in our interactions with others. It could mean volunteering our time and resources to causes we care about, even if we’re not obligated to. It could also mean refraining from behaviors that, while legally permissible, might be harmful or offensive to others, such as hate speech or wasteful consumption.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a guide for ethical self-improvement. It encourages us to constantly strive to be better, not just in terms of what we achieve for ourselves, but also in terms of the positive impact we have on others and on the world. It also reminds us to be mindful of our actions and their potential consequences, promoting self-reflection and self-awareness.