Face to face Quote by Abraham Lincoln
““It is the eternal struggle between these two principles — right and wrong — throughout the world. They are the two principles that have stood face to face from the beginning of time; and will ever continue to struggle. The one is the common right of humanity, and the other the divine right of kings. It is the same principle in whatever shape it develops itself. It is the same spirit that says, "You toil and work and earn bread, and I'll eat it." No matter in what shape it comes, whether from the mouth of a king who seeks to bestride the people of his own nation and live by the fruit of their labor, or from one race of men as an apology for enslaving another race, it is the same tyrannical principle.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863
The conflict between moral justice for people and the claimed divine authority of rulers repeats throughout history, manifesting as exploitation and oppression.
In simple terms: Rightful humanity versus claimed divine rule.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist unjust authority.
Themes
justice
power
exploitation
history
morality
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political movements
- labor rights
- civil rights activism
- education on history
Key Concepts
social contract
divine right
tyranny
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we differentiate true moral authority from self‑interest?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of claimed divine rights?
A Different Perspective
Even righteous causes can be co‑opted for power.
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