Abolitionist Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“I do not hesitate to say, that those who call themselves Abolitionists should at once effectually withdraw their support, both inperson and property, from the government of Massachusetts, and not wait until they constitute a majority of one, before they suffer the right to prevail through them. I think that it is enough if they have God on their side, without waiting for that other one. Moreover, any man more right than his neighbors constitutes a majority of one already.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Abolitionist Appeal, 1850
The speaker urges immediate withdrawal of support from Massachusetts government unless a majority of one opposes it, trusting divine justice over majority rule.
In simple terms: Withdraw support now, trust God over majority.
Key Takeaway
Act on conscience, not majority.
Themes
politics
activism
justice
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- protesting policies
- withdrawing donations
- advocating reform
- ethical voting
Key Concepts
civil disobedience
moral authority
Questions to Reflect On
- What moral principles guide your political actions?
- How do you reconcile personal conscience with democratic processes?
A Different Perspective
Risk of alienating allies.
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