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With our sympathy for the wrongdoer we need the old…

“With our sympathy for the wrongdoer we need the old Puritan and Quaker hatred of wrongdoing; with our just tolerance of men and opinions a righteous abhorrence of sin.” quote by John Greenleaf Whittier
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“With our sympathy for the wrongdoer we need the old Puritan and Quaker hatred of wrongdoing; with our just tolerance of men and opinions a righteous abhorrence of sin.”

John Greenleaf Whittier

About This Quote

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

Balancing compassion with moral firmness, we must condemn wrongdoing while tolerating differing views.

In simple terms: Condemn sin, tolerate people.

Key Takeaway

Stand for justice without losing empathy.

Themes

morality justice compassion

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • public discourse
  • community leadership

Key Concepts

ethical balance social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you separate the person from the act?
  • When does tolerance become complicity?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on condemnation can alienate allies.

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