Slavery discourages arts and manufacturing ...[and] every master of slaves is born a petty tyrant.
George MasonRead
Taught to regard a part of our own Species in the most abject and contemptible Degree below us, we lose that Idea of the dignity of Man which the Hand of Nature had implanted in us, for great and useful purposes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that viewing any part of humanity as inferior undermines our inherent respect for human dignity.
George Mason's quote reflects on the detrimental effects of societal conditioning that leads us to devalue certain groups of people. He argues that such perspectives degrade our understanding of human dignity, which is a fundamental aspect of our nature. By promoting equality and recognizing the worth of all individuals, we align ourselves with the 'great and useful purposes' for which humans were designed.
Themes
DignityHumanityEqualityRespectPerception
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for social justice.
More from George Mason
All quotes →Every society, all government, and every kind of civil compact therefore, is or ought to be, calculated for the general good and safety of the community.
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There is a Passion natural to the Mind of man, especially a free Man, which renders him impatient of Restraint.
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Government is, or ought to be instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation, or community... when any government shall be found inadequate or contrary to these purposes, a majority of the community hath an indubitable, inalienable, and indefeasible right to reform, alter, or abolish it, in such manner as shall be judged most conducive to the public weal.
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As much as I value an union of all the states, I would not admit the southern states into the union, unless they agreed to the discontinuance of this disgraceful trade, because it would bring weakness and not strength to the union.
George MasonRead
All men are by nature born equally free and independent.
George MasonRead
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