Conscience Quote by David O. McKay
“A man may act as his conscience dictates so long as he does not infringe upon the rights of others. That is the spirit of true democracy, and all government by the Priesthood should be actuated by that same high motive.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1962
Acting according to conscience is acceptable only when it respects others’ rights, which defines true democracy and just governance.
In simple terms: Follow conscience without harming others.
Key Takeaway
Respect others’ rights while acting on conscience.
Themes
democracy
ethics
government
conscience
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- community decision making
- legal frameworks
- civil discourse
Key Concepts
human rights
moral philosophy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we resolve conflicts between personal morals and societal laws?
- When should individual conscience yield to majority rule?
A Different Perspective
Balancing personal conscience with collective rights can be complex.
![“[One] principle that actuated the lives of the fathers who founded our Constitution was faith in God.” quote by David O. McKay](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/034/david-o-mckay-2062_constitution_one-principle-that-actuated-the-lives-of_65379.jpg)
