Skip to content

Brother Quote by Albert Schweitzer

“We cannot abdicate our conscience to an organization, nor to a government. 'Am I my brother's keeper?' Most certainly I am! I cannot escape my responsibility by saying the State will do all that is necessary. It is a tragedy that nowadays so many think and feel otherwise.” quote by Albert Schweitzer
Download Open image
“We cannot abdicate our conscience to an organization, nor to a government. 'Am I my brother's keeper?' Most certainly I am! I cannot escape my responsibility by saying the State will do all that is necessary. It is a tragedy that nowadays so many think and feel otherwise.”

Albert Schweitzer

About This Quote

Source Speech: Unknown, possibly interview or essay

The quote stresses personal moral responsibility, rejecting the idea that institutions can replace individual conscience and duty to others.

In simple terms: Individuals must uphold conscience and duty, not rely on state.

Key Takeaway

Never shift moral duty to others.

Themes

responsibility conscience individualism

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • public service
  • community activism
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

ethics social contract humanism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you act responsibly when institutions fail?
  • What limits exist for personal moral agency?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook systemic barriers that limit individual action.

4.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Albert Schweitzer

Explore all 400 Albert Schweitzer quotes

More Brother quotes

Browse all 6,351 Brother quotes