Beaten path Quote by Abraham Lincoln
““Towering genius disdains a beaten path. It seeks regions hitherto unexplored. It sees no distinction in adding story to story upon the monuments of fame erected to the memory of others. It denies that it is glory enough to serve under any chief. It scorns to tread in the footsteps of any predecessor, however illustrious. It thirsts and burns for distinction; and, if possible, it will have it, whether at the expense of emancipating slaves, or enslaving free men.””
About This Quote
Great genius rejects conventional paths, pursuing uncharted realms and striving for distinction, even at moral cost.
In simple terms: Geniuses avoid easy routes.
Key Takeaway
Pursue originality responsibly.
Themes
innovation
individualism
ambition
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- artistic creation
- scientific research
- political reform
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
ethical ambition
creative autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- Is originality worth harming others?
- How to balance ambition with morality?
A Different Perspective
The drive for distinction can justify unethical actions.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
