I stand four-square for reason, and object to what seems…
“I stand four-square for reason, and object to what seems to me to be irrationality, whatever the source. If you are on my side in this, I must warn you that the army of the night has the advantage of overwhelming numbers, and, by its very nature, is immune to reason, so that it is entirely unlikely that you and I can win out. We will always remain a tiny and probably hopeless minority, but let us never tire of presenting our view, and of fighting the good fight for the right.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Reasoned minorities face overwhelming opposition but must persist in presenting truth despite low odds of success.
In simple terms: Even small rational voices matter.
Speak truth despite odds.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public debates
- policy advocacy
- academic forums
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you amplify rational voices?
- When is compromise acceptable?
Winning may be unlikely without broader support.