Skip to content

Bottom Quote by Edwin Hubbel Chapin

“At the bottom of not a little of the bravery that appears in the world, there lurks a miserable cowardice. Men will face powder and steel because they have not the courage to face public opinion.” quote by Edwin Hubbel Chapin
Download Open image
“At the bottom of not a little of the bravery that appears in the world, there lurks a miserable cowardice. Men will face powder and steel because they have not the courage to face public opinion.”

Edwin Hubbel Chapin

About This Quote

Source Speech: Unknown public address, 19th century

The quote suggests that people often avoid confronting societal norms, preferring violent conflict over the courage to challenge public opinion.

In simple terms: People avoid public scrutiny, choosing violence instead.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate the courage to speak truth to power.

Themes

courage public opinion conflict social pressure

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical motivational

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • workplace debates
  • online discourse
  • community leadership

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics ethical bravery

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you say if you faced public criticism?
  • How can you act bravely without resorting to violence?
A Different Perspective

Might be overstated; not all conflict stems from cowardice.

2.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Edwin Hubbel Chapin

Explore all 219 Edwin Hubbel Chapin quotes

More Bottom quotes

Browse all 2,558 Bottom quotes