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If there be any man who thinks the ruin of a race of men a…

“If there be any man who thinks the ruin of a race of men a small matter, compared with the last decoration and completions of hisown comfort,--who would not so much as part with his ice- cream, to save them from rapine and manacles, I think I must not hesitate to satisfy that man that also his…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“If there be any man who thinks the ruin of a race of men a small matter, compared with the last decoration and completions of hisown comfort,--who would not so much as part with his ice- cream, to save them from rapine and manacles, I think I must not hesitate to satisfy that man that also his cream and vanilla are safer and cheaper by placing the negro nation on a fair footing than by robbing them.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that protecting a marginalized group is a moral imperative, outweighing personal comforts.

In simple terms: Protecting others is more important than personal luxury.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize justice over comfort.

Themes

justice morality race social responsibility

Mood

determined urgent

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • policy making
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

ethical duty human rights solidarity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal sacrifices are justified for social justice?
  • How can we balance self-care with activism?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual agency in complex systemic issues.

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