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In the New Testament it is taught that willing and…

“In the New Testament it is taught that willing and voluntary service to others is the highest duty and glory in human life. . . . The men of talent are constantly forced to serve the rest. They make the discoveries and inventions, order the battles, write the books, and produce the works of art…” quote by William Graham Sumner
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“In the New Testament it is taught that willing and voluntary service to others is the highest duty and glory in human life. . . . The men of talent are constantly forced to serve the rest. They make the discoveries and inventions, order the battles, write the books, and produce the works of art. The benefit and enjoyment go to the whole. There are those who joyfully order their own lives so that they may serve the welfare of mankind.”

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.

Serving others is the highest human duty; talented people are compelled to benefit society.

In simple terms: Service to others is noble.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize helping others.

Themes

service duty talent

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • public policy
  • scientific research
  • artistic creation

Key Concepts

ethics social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates you to serve?
  • How can societies reward service fairly?
A Different Perspective

Self‑sacrifice can be exploited.

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