Truth is one forever absolute, but opinion is truth filtered through the moods, the blood, the disposition of the spectator.
Wendell PhillipsRead
Write on my gravestone: 'Infidel, Traitor.', infidel to every church that compromises with wrong; traitor to every government that oppresses the people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses a commitment to stand against injustice, both in religious and governmental contexts.
Wendell Phillips' quote reflects his strong moral stance against any form of oppression and compromise with wrongdoing. By choosing the words 'Infidel' and 'Traitor,' he highlights the idea that true integrity may often put one at odds with established institutions that prioritize conformity over justice.
Themes
InjusticeOppressionCourageIntegrityStand UpTruth
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating for civil rights, one might cite this quote to emphasize the importance of standing against oppression.
More from Wendell Phillips
All quotes βSeldom ever was any knowledge given to keep, but to impart; the grace of this rich jewel is lost in concealment.
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If you want to be an orator, first get your great cause.
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Debt is the fatal disease of republics, the first thing and the mightiest to undermine governments and corrupt the people.
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Organize, and stand together. Claim something together, and at once; let the nation hear a united demand from the laboring voice, and then, when you have got that, go on after another; but get something.
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On a single winged word hath hung the destiny of nations.
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