QuoteProject
Right reason is stronger than force.
James A. Garfield
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

The power of sound judgment and logic surpasses that of brute strength.

James A. Garfield's quote emphasizes the idea that rational thought and moral reasoning hold greater influence and effectiveness than mere physical force or power. It suggests that true strength lies in the ability to understand and apply reason, rather than relying on violent or coercive methods to achieve one’s goals.

Themes

ReasonForcePowerWisdomStrength

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about conflict resolution, you might reference this quote to argue for diplomacy over military action.

More from James A. Garfield

Statistical science is indispensable to modern statesmanship. In legislation as in physical science it is beginning to be understood that we can control terrestrial forces only by obeying their laws. The legislator must formulate in his statutes not only the national will, but also those great laws of social life revealed by statistics.
James A. GarfieldRead
I am trying to do two things: dare to be a radical and not a fool, which is a matter of no small difficulty.
James A. GarfieldRead
Justice and goodwill will outlast passion.
James A. GarfieldRead
Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption.
James A. GarfieldRead
If the power to do hard work is not a skill, it's the best possible substitute for it.
James A. GarfieldRead
Next in importance to freedom and justice is popular education, without which neither freedom nor justice can be permanently maintained.
James A. GarfieldRead

Similar quotes

Only by self-respect will you compel others to respect you.
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
Sad will be the day for every man when he becomes absolutely contented with the life that he is living, with the thoughts that he is thinking, with the deeds that he is doing, when there is not forever beating at the doors of his soul some great desire to do something larger, which he knows that he was meant and made to do because he is the child of God.
Phillips BrooksRead
Whatever the job you are asked to do at whatever level, do a good job because your reputation is your resume.
Madeleine AlbrightRead
Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.
Alphonse KarrRead
But only he who, himself enlightened, is not afraid of shadows.
Immanuel KantRead
The greatest achievements of the human mind are generally received with distrust.
Arthur SchopenhauerRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.