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
I do but quote from one of those speeches when I declare that "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so."
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a position of non-interference regarding slavery, emphasizing legal boundaries and personal inclination.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln asserts his stance on slavery, indicating that he neither has the constitutional right nor the desire to intervene in states where slavery is still practiced. This reflects a complex view of moral responsibility versus legal constraints, suggesting that the separation of personal ethics and governmental authority is essential in addressing controversial issues.
Themes
SlaveryLawInterferenceEthicsMorality
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on civil rights, one might reference this quote to highlight the importance of legal limitations.
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.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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