Religion is so frequently a source of confusion in political life, and so frequently dangerous to democracy, precisely because it introduces absolutes into the realm of relative values.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
The sad duty of politics is to establish justice in a sinful world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Politics serves the challenging role of creating fairness in an imperfect world.
Reinhold Niebuhr's quote reflects the complex nature of politics as both a necessary and often arduous endeavor. It acknowledges that while the world may be flawed and marred by injustice, the responsibility of political leaders is to strive for justice, indicating that such efforts are inevitable yet solemn in the face of human imperfection. It emphasizes the moral duty to work towards a just society despite the inherent struggles of human nature.
Themes
PoliticsJusticeSinDutyWorld
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on moral responsibility in governance.
More from Reinhold Niebuhr
All quotes βThe tendency to claim God as an ally for our partisan value and ends is the source of all religious fanaticism.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
The mastery of nature is vainly believed to be an adequate substitute for self mastery.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
All you earnest young men out to save the world. . . please, have a laugh.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
Forgiveness is the final form of love.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
God, give me grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
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