We have one set of obligations to the world in general…
“We have one set of obligations to the world in general, and we have other sets, never to be reconciled, to our fellow-country men, to our neighbors, to our friends, to our family to our children. We have to go through not two slits at the same time but twenty-two. All we can do is to look afterwards, and see what happened.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Balancing conflicting duties to society, community, and family creates complex, often irreconcilable obligations, leading to hindsight judgment.
In simple terms: Multiple duties clash, forcing tough choices and later reflection.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and prioritize obligations wisely.
Themes
responsibility
conflict
ethics
family
society
Mood
reflective
serious
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political decision making
- family caregiving
- community service
- career choices
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
moral dilemma
role conflict
prioritization
Questions to Reflect On
- Which obligations can you realistically fulfill?
- How do you handle unavoidable conflicts?
A Different Perspective
Balancing all demands may be impossible; compromises can cause regret.