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A wise man will not leave the right to the mercy of…

“A wise man will not leave the right to the mercy of chance, nor wish it to prevail through the power of the majority. There is but little virtue in the action of masses of men.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“A wise man will not leave the right to the mercy of chance, nor wish it to prevail through the power of the majority. There is but little virtue in the action of masses of men.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Relying on chance or majority opinion undermines personal virtue; true moral action comes from individual conscience.

In simple terms: Don't trust chance or crowds for virtue.

Key Takeaway

Act from personal conscience.

Themes

individualism morality critical thinking

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • personal decisions
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you follow the majority?
  • What role does intuition play in moral choices?
A Different Perspective

Majority opinion can sometimes reflect collective wisdom; blind individualism may ignore beneficial norms.

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