Conscience Quote by Henry David Thoreau
““I think that we should be men first, and subjects afterward. It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law, so much as for the right. The only obligation which I have a right to assume is to do at any time what I think right. It is truly enough said that a corporation has no conscience; but a corporation of conscientious men is a corporation with a conscience.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Civil Disobedience, 1849
Advocates prioritizing moral conscience over blind obedience to law, urging individuals to act on what they deem right.
In simple terms: Right over law; conscience guides action.
Key Takeaway
Act on personal morality.
Themes
morality
individualism
conscience
law
corporate ethics
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- activism
- business decisions
- personal dilemmas
- leadership
- policy making
Key Concepts
Ethical philosophy
civil responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal conscience with societal rules?
- When should corporate leaders prioritize ethics over profit?
A Different Perspective
Blind adherence to law can ignore justice.
