Change Quote by Henry Drummond
“Not more certain is it that it is something outside the thermometer that produces a change in the thermometer, than it is something outside the soul of man that produces a moral change upon him. That he must be susceptible to that change, that he must be a party to it, goes without saying; but that neither his aptitude nor his will can produce it is equally certain.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Greatest Thing in the World by Henry Drummond, 1900
Moral change comes from an external source beyond personal control, just as temperature changes are caused by external factors.
In simple terms: Moral change is driven by forces outside ourselves.
Key Takeaway
Recognize external influences on character.
Themes
ethics
determinism
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- leadership
- education
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
external causality
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance external influences with personal responsibility?
- Can we cultivate moral change despite external constraints?
A Different Perspective
Assumes no personal agency in moral development.
