If we are not represented, we are slaves.
Interpretation
Representation is crucial for freedom and autonomy.
James Otis highlights the importance of representation in governance and society, suggesting that without a voice or representation, individuals are reduced to a subservient status akin to slavery. This quote underscores the idea that active participation and representation in decision-making processes are essential for maintaining one's freedom and dignity.
In practice
During a speech advocating for civil rights, one might reference this quote to emphasize the need for representation in government.
I am forced to get my living by the labour of my hand; and the sweat of my brow... for bitter bread, earned under the frowns of some who have no natural or divine right to be above me, and entirely owe their grandeur and honor to grinding the faces of the poor.
There can be no prescription old enough to supersede the Law of Nature and the grant of God Almighty, who has given to all men a natural right to be free, and they have it ordinarily in their power to make themselves so, if they please.
I will to my dying day oppose with all the powers and faculties God has given me, all such instruments of slavery on the one hand, and villainy on the other, as this writ of assistance is.
Now, one of the most essential branches of English liberty is the freedom of one's house.
It is a clear truth that those who every day barter away other men's liberty will soon care little for their own.
An act against the Constitution is void; an act against natural equity is void.
We consider bibles and religions divine I do not say they are not divine. I say they have all grown out of you, and may grow out of you still. It is not they who give the life, it is you who give the life.
Cynics regarded everybody as equally corrupt... Idealists regarded everybody as equally corrupt, except themselves.
To swear, except when necessary, is becoming to an honorable man.
Whatever is received is received according to the nature of the recipient.
The story of Mary of Magdalene reminds us all of a fundamental truth...A disciple of Christ is one who, in the experience of human weakness, has had the humility to ask for his help, has been healed by him and has set out following closely after him, becoming a witness of the power of his merciful love that is stronger than sin and death.
We are more unhappy to see people ahead of us than happy to see people behind us.
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