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
Freedom is not the right to do what we want, but what we ought
Interpretation
What this quote means
True freedom involves responsibility, emphasizing that our actions should align with moral and ethical obligations.
This quote by Abraham Lincoln expresses the idea that freedom is not merely about indulging in our desires and whims, but rather about understanding and fulfilling our responsibilities towards others and society. It challenges the notion of freedom as a limitless license to act without consideration, instead highlighting that true liberty comes with the conscious choice to do what is right and necessary.
Themes
FreedomResponsibilityMoralityChoicesEthics
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about civil liberties, to emphasize the importance of responsible action.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, 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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One aspect of modern life which has gone far to stifle men is the rapid growth of tremendous corporations. Enormous spiritual sacrifices are made in the transformation of shopkeepers into employees... The disappearance of free enterprise has led to a submergence of the individual in the impersonal corporation in much the same manner as he has been submerged in the state in other lands.
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Speech is for the convenience of those who are hard of hearing; but there are many fine things which we cannot say if we have to shout.
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