Good man Quote by Anonymous
““Since every country stands in numerous and various relations with the other countries of the world, and many, our own among the number, exercise actual authority over some of these, a knowledge of the established rules of international morality is essential to the duty of every nation, and therefore of every person in it who helps to make up the nation, and whose voice and feeling form a part of what is called public opinion. Let not any one pacify his conscience by the delusion that he can do no harm if he takes no part, and forms no opinion. Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing. He is not a good man who, without a protest, allows wrong to be committed in his name, and with the means which he helps to supply, because he will not trouble himself to use his mind on the subject. It depends on the habit of attending to and looking into public transactions, and on the degree of information and solid judgment respecting them that exists in the community, whether the conduct of the nation as a nation, both within itself and towards others, shall be selfish, corrupt, and tyrannical, or rational and enlightened, just and noble.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political philosophy, early 20th century, author unknown
Public participation and moral responsibility are crucial to prevent passive complicity in injustice
In simple terms: Everyone must stay informed and act against wrongdoing
Engage actively in civic issues and form informed opinions
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- voting
- community organizing
- public debate
- education campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers prevent people from staying informed?
- How can societies encourage active moral engagement?
Might be idealistic; assumes access to reliable information for all citizens