I think that we should be men first, and subjects…
““I think that we should be men first, and subjects afterward. It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right. The only obligation which I have a right to assume is to do at any time what I think right. It is truly enough said that a corporation has no conscience; but a corporation of conscientious men is a corporation with a conscience.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates prioritizing moral conscience over blind obedience to law, urging individuals to act on what they deem right.
In simple terms: Right over law; conscience guides action.
Key Takeaway
Act on personal morality.
Themes
morality
individualism
conscience
law
corporate ethics
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- activism
- business decisions
- personal dilemmas
- leadership
- policy making
Key Concepts
Ethical philosophy
civil responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal conscience with societal rules?
- When should corporate leaders prioritize ethics over profit?
A Different Perspective
Blind adherence to law can ignore justice.