The critical point is that the Constitution places the right of silence beyond the reach of government.
William O. DouglasRead
Fear of ideas makes us impotent and ineffective.
Interpretation
Avoiding new ideas hinders our progress and effectiveness.
This quote emphasizes the importance of embracing new ideas and perspectives. When we allow fear to prevent us from exploring and discussing different concepts, we limit our ability to grow, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. The quote suggests that fear can paralyze us and reduce our effectiveness in both personal and collective endeavors.
In practice
Using this quote in a motivational speech about embracing change and creativity in the workplace.
The critical point is that the Constitution places the right of silence beyond the reach of government.
One who comes to the Court must come to adore, not to protest. That's the new gloss on the First Amendment.
The great and invigorating influences in American life have been the unorthodox: the people who challenge an existing institution or way of life, or say and do things that make people think.
I have the same confidence in the ability of our people to reject noxious literature as I have in their capacity to sort out the true from the false in theology, economics, or any other field.
Restriction of free thought and free speech is the most dangerous of all subversions. It is the one un-American act that could most easily defeat us.
The truth is that a vast restructuring of our society is needed if remedies are to become available to the average person. Without that restructuring the good will that holds society together will be slowly dissipated... It is that sense of futility which permeates the present series of protests and dissents. Where there is a persistent sense of futility, there is violence; and that is where we are today.
The emotion at the point of technical breakthrough is better than wine, women and song put together.
Strenuous intellectual work and the study of God's Nature are the angels that will lead me through all the troubles of this life with consolation, strength, and uncompromising rigor.
There are many things which we can afford to forget which it is yet well to learn.
One voice may speak you false, but in many there is always truth to be found.
I believe the reason we sleep is not just to allow our body to rest but that it is to allow this inner wisdom to speak to us through symbols. This includes the body or somatic problems as well as psychological ones. Dreams and drawings are useful in diagnosing physical conditions.
Be not ashamed of mistakes and thus make them crimes.
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