None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Cast your whole vote, not a piece of paper merely, but your whole influence. A minority is powerless when it conforms to a majority; but is irresistable when it clogs by its whole weight. If the alternative is to keep all just men in prison, or give up war and slavery, the State will not hesitate which to choose.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of fully engaging in one's beliefs and actions rather than merely participating superficially.
Henry David Thoreau's quote underscores the significance of active participation in societal and political matters. It suggests that individuals should invest their complete influence and commitment rather than passively conforming to the majority. Thoreau argues that true power lies in the collective strength of those who stand against the majority, especially when faced with moral dilemmas, such as injustice and oppression. The state often prioritizes stability over justice, but a unified minority can challenge the status quo effectively.
Themes
VoteInfluenceMajorityMinorityJusticePowerSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a political rally to encourage voters to fully support their candidates.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
Henry David ThoreauRead
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
Henry David ThoreauRead
As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
Henry David ThoreauRead
That grand old poem called Winter
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