利之中取大，非不得已也；害之中取小，不得已也。
释义Explanation
这句话指出：在利益面前，应主动选择较大的利益，这并非出于被迫；在危害面前，不得不选择较小的危害，这是出于被迫。它体现了墨子对利害关系的冷静权衡，主张在复杂现实中理性计算得失，既不盲目追求利益，也不消极逃避损失，而是在两难中作出最优选择，具有鲜明的实用理性精神。
This quote from Mozi's "Da Qu" means that when faced with possible benefits, one should proactively choose the greater one—not as a last resort; when faced with harms, one is compelled to choose the lesser one. It reflects Mozi's pragmatic rationality and emphasis on weighing gains and losses. Instead of naive moralism or passive acceptance, Mozi advocates a clear-eyed calculation of consequences, choosing the best available option in a difficult situation—a principle akin to "the lesser of two evils," but framed as an active pursuit of the greater good.
使用场景Usage
在现代决策中，比如企业面临多个投资方案，应主动选择回报最高、风险可控的项目；而在不可避免的损失面前，如产品召回与客户诉讼之间，只能选择损失较小的方案。这种“利中取大，害中取小”的思维，帮助人们在资源有限、信息复杂时保持理性，避免因情绪化或道德洁癖导致更大损失，是决策科学和风险管理的古典智慧。
In modern decision-making, such as choosing between investment options, one should proactively seek the greatest feasible benefit while managing risk; when losses are unavoidable, one must choose the lesser harm—for example, a product recall versus costly litigation. This principle of "choosing the greater benefit and the lesser harm" helps individuals and organizations stay rational under constraints, avoiding greater losses caused by emotional reactions or moral absolutism. It remains a timeless guide in risk management and strategic planning.