Skip to content

For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all…

“For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life. And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe -- the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state…” quote by John F. Kennedy
Download Open image
“For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life. And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe -- the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God.”

John F. Kennedy

About This Quote

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

Human rights stem from divine authority, not state generosity; this belief fuels both liberation and conflict worldwide.

In simple terms: Rights come from God, not government.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the source of rights to guide action.

Themes

rights faith politics

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • advocating human rights
  • policy debates
  • interfaith dialogue
  • educational curricula
  • peace negotiations

Key Concepts

divine authority human dignity revolution global conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we ensure rights are protected universally?
  • What role should faith play in politics?
A Different Perspective

Power can be misused when rights are claimed without accountability.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John F. Kennedy

Explore all 824 John F. Kennedy quotes

More Abolish quotes

Browse all 300 Abolish quotes