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It is not for a man to put himself in such an attitude to…

“It is not for a man to put himself in such an attitude to society, but to maintain himself in whatever attitude he find himself through obedience to the laws of his being, which will never be one of opposition to a just government, if he should chance to meet with such.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“It is not for a man to put himself in such an attitude to society, but to maintain himself in whatever attitude he find himself through obedience to the laws of his being, which will never be one of opposition to a just government, if he should chance to meet with such.”

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.

One should obey personal conscience and not oppose a just government, aligning with inner laws.

In simple terms: Follow inner conscience, respect just law.

Key Takeaway

Align actions with inner principles.

Themes

ethics government conscience

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • civic engagement
  • moral decision making
  • political participation

Key Concepts

obedience personal law justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should one dissent?
  • How to balance conscience and law?
A Different Perspective

Complex when personal conscience conflicts with law.

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