We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
My respect for human beings is based not on the colour of a man’s skin nor authority he may wield, but purely on merit.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Respect for individuals should be based on their merit rather than superficial attributes like race or authority.
In this quote, Nelson Mandela emphasizes the importance of valuing people based on their abilities, contributions, and character rather than judging them by their race or status. This belief in meritocracy serves as a foundation for equality and mutual respect in society, promoting a more just world where individuals are assessed on their true worth and potential.
Themes
RespectMeritEqualityHumanityCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on racial equality.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
Nelson MandelaRead
The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
Nelson MandelaRead
We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
Nelson MandelaRead
After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
Nelson MandelaRead
I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
Nelson MandelaRead
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When it appears that there is no choice, some form of illusion is operating.
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