Do the day's work. If it be to protect the rights of the…
“Do the day's work. If it be to protect the rights of the weak, whoever objects, do it. If it be to help a powerful corporation better to serve the people, whatever the opposition, do that. Expect to be called a stand-patter, but don't be a stand-patter. Expect to be called a demagogue, but don't be a demagogue. Don't hesitate to be as revolutionary as science. Don't hesitate to be as reactionary as the multiplication table. Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong. Don't hurry to legislate. Give administration a chance to catch up with legislation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Act according to principle, not popularity; balance protection of the weak with responsible governance.
In simple terms: Do what’s right, not what’s popular.
Key Takeaway
Stand firm on values, avoid labels.
Themes
ethics
politics
leadership
Mood
thought‑provoking
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- activism
- community service
- legislative work
Key Concepts
principle‑based action
civic duty
Questions to Reflect On
- When should compromise be considered?
- How do you avoid becoming the label you reject?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence can ignore nuance and context.