Expediency Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“There is no such thing as accomplishing a righteous reform by the use of "expediency." There is no such thing as sliding up- hill.In morals the only sliders are backsliders.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Civil Disobedience, 1849
True reform cannot rely on shortcuts; moral progress demands steadfastness, not expedient compromises.
In simple terms: Righteous change needs integrity, not shortcuts.
Key Takeaway
Avoid expediency in ethical work.
Themes
integrity
reform
morality
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- community organizing
- personal ethics
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
ethical steadfastness
principled action
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you resist the lure of quick fixes?
- What values guide your reform efforts?
A Different Perspective
Expediency may seem efficient but erodes trust and long‑term impact.
