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Every man and woman in society has one big duty. That is…

“Every man and woman in society has one big duty. That is, to take care of his or her own self. This is a social duty. For, fortunately, the matter stands so that the duty of making the best of one's self individually is not a separate thing from the duty of filling one's place in society, but the…” quote by William Graham Sumner
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“Every man and woman in society has one big duty. That is, to take care of his or her own self. This is a social duty. For, fortunately, the matter stands so that the duty of making the best of one's self individually is not a separate thing from the duty of filling one's place in society, but the two are one, and the latter is accomplished when the former is done”

William Graham Sumner

About This Quote

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

Personal self‑improvement is a social duty; caring for oneself fulfills societal responsibilities.

In simple terms: Improving yourself also serves society.

Key Takeaway

Invest in personal growth for communal benefit.

Themes

self‑improvement social duty individual responsibility community

Mood

analytical motivational

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • career development
  • health
  • civic engagement

Key Concepts

Sociology ethics self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal growth impact community health?
  • What societal factors hinder self‑care?
A Different Perspective

May ignore systemic barriers to self‑improvement.

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