I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Now I confess myself as belonging to that class in the country who contemplate slavery as a moral, social and political evil.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Lincoln acknowledges that he sees slavery as a profound evil in multiple aspects of society.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln expresses his deep moral conviction against slavery, categorizing it not only as a moral failure but also as a significant social and political issue. He identifies himself with those who openly condemn slavery, underlining the complexity of the institution as one that adversely affects the fabric of society and the governance of the nation.
Themes
SlaveryEvilMoralityPoliticsSocial Issues
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about moral responsibility in leadership.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
Abraham LincolnRead
For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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