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Arguing Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“While I have often said that all men out to be free, yet I would allow those colored persons to be slaves who want to be; and next to them those white persons who argue in favor of making other people slaves. I am in favor of giving an opportunity to such white men to try it on for themselves.” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“While I have often said that all men out to be free, yet I would allow those colored persons to be slaves who want to be; and next to them those white persons who argue in favor of making other people slaves. I am in favor of giving an opportunity to such white men to try it on for themselves.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Address, 1862

The speaker paradoxically supports freedom for some while endorsing slavery for others, exposing contradictory moral reasoning.

In simple terms: Contradictory stance on freedom and slavery.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge internal contradictions.

Themes

morality freedom hypocrisy

Mood

critical reflective

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • civil rights movements
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

ethical inconsistency social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the dangers of selective liberty?
  • How can societies avoid such double standards?
A Different Perspective

The view is morally untenable and historically inaccurate.

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