Ability Quote by Adolf Hitler
“Our German language has a word which in a magnificent way denotes conduct based on this spirit: doing one's duty [Pflichterfüllung]-which means serving the community instead of contenting oneself. We have a word for the basic disposition which underlies conduct of this kind in contrast to egoism and selfishness-idealism. By 'idealism' we mean only the ability of the individual to sacrifice himself for the whole, for his fellow men.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Nazi Propaganda, 1935
Duty to community outweighs personal desire; idealism is self‑sacrifice for the greater good.
In simple terms: Serve others, not just yourself.
Prioritize collective well‑being over ego.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public service
- military enlistment
- community projects
- volunteer work
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When does self‑sacrifice become harmful?
- How to balance personal rights with communal duties?
Idealism can be exploited for authoritarian control.