Conviction Quote by Harry Emerson Fosdick
“Democracy is based upon the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Quote from a 1940s sermon by Harry Emerson Fosdick, published in "The Christian Century", 1940
Democracy thrives when ordinary people are seen as capable of extraordinary achievements.
In simple terms: People can do great things.
Believe in everyday potential.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- community organizing
- education reform
- grassroots activism
- leadership development
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we nurture hidden talents?
- What structures support ordinary excellence?
Overestimating capacity can lead to disappointment.