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It is both foolish and wicked to teach the average man who…

“It is both foolish and wicked to teach the average man who is not well off that some wrong or injustice has been done him, and that he should hope for redress elsewhere than in his own industry, honesty, and intelligence.” quote by Theodore Roosevelt
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“It is both foolish and wicked to teach the average man who is not well off that some wrong or injustice has been done him, and that he should hope for redress elsewhere than in his own industry, honesty, and intelligence.”

Theodore Roosevelt

About This Quote

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

Teaching the poor to seek redress outside their own industry undermines personal responsibility and honesty, encouraging reliance on external solutions.

In simple terms: Encourage self-reliance over external blame.

Key Takeaway

Promote personal integrity and industry.

Themes

justice self-reliance honesty politics social responsibility

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • community dispute resolution
  • personal development workshops
  • ethical education
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

individualism ethical conduct social reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can individuals always resolve injustices alone?
  • How to balance personal effort with collective action?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on personal responsibility may ignore systemic inequities.

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