Consent Quote by Abraham Lincoln
“The master not only governs the slave without his consent, but he governs him by a set of rules altogether different from those which he prescribes for himself. Allow ALL the governed an equal voice in the government, and that, and that only, is self-government.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863
Self‑government requires equal voice for all, not just the ruler’s rules.
In simple terms: Equal voice creates true self‑government.
Key Takeaway
Ensure all have a say.
Themes
democracy
equality
governance
Mood
hopeful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- voting reform
- community meetings
- policy making
- civic education
Key Concepts
Social contract
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we guarantee genuine participation?
- What barriers limit equal voice?
A Different Perspective
Power imbalances can persist despite formal equality.
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