Obligation Quote by Anne-Louise-Germaine de Staël
““... the reciprocal obligation from man to man holds the first rank; what regards ourselves, ought to be considered relatively to the influence that we may possess over the destiny of others...””
About This Quote
Source Book: De l'Allemagne by Madame de Staël, 1810
Human responsibility to others outweighs self‑interest; power over others' fate demands moral duty.
In simple terms: We must prioritize our impact on others over personal concerns.
Act responsibly toward those you influence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- leadership
- policy making
- community service
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal goals with influence on others?
- What safeguards ensure responsible use of power?
Power can be misused; intentions may not align with outcomes.