Skip to content

There is no such thing as accomplishing a righteous reform…

“There is no such thing as accomplishing a righteous reform by the use of "expediency." There is no such thing as sliding up- hill.In morals the only sliders are backsliders.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“There is no such thing as accomplishing a righteous reform by the use of "expediency." There is no such thing as sliding up- hill.In morals the only sliders are backsliders.”

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.

True reform cannot rely on shortcuts; moral progress demands steadfastness, not expedient compromises.

In simple terms: Righteous change needs integrity, not shortcuts.

Key Takeaway

Avoid expediency in ethical work.

Themes

integrity reform morality

Mood

serious reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • community organizing
  • personal ethics
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

ethical steadfastness principled action

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you resist the lure of quick fixes?
  • What values guide your reform efforts?
A Different Perspective

Expediency may seem efficient but erodes trust and long‑term impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Expediency quotes

Browse all 115 Expediency quotes