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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…” quote by Anonymous
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““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.””

Anonymous

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

Key Takeaway

Engage actively in civic issues and form informed opinions

Themes

civic duty morality public opinion

Mood

concerned determined

Type

philosophical activist

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • community organizing
  • public debate
  • education campaigns

Key Concepts

ethical responsibility social activism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What barriers prevent people from staying informed?
  • How can societies encourage active moral engagement?
A Different Perspective

Might be idealistic; assumes access to reliable information for all citizens

4.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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