Believe Quote by Jane Addams
“We are thus brought to a conception of Democracy not merely as a sentiment which desires the well-being of all men, nor yet as a creed which believes in the essential dignity and equality of all men, but as that which affords a rule of living as well as a test of faith.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Democracy and Its Discontents, 1915
Democracy is more than a feeling or belief; it is a lived practice and a test of collective faith in equality and dignity.
In simple terms: Democracy requires active participation and moral testing.
Key Takeaway
Engage in civic duties and uphold equality.
Themes
civic engagement
equality
morality
political theory
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- voting
- community organizing
- public policy debates
- education curricula
Key Concepts
social contract
public trust
participatory governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure democracy remains a lived practice?
- What tests of faith does democracy face today?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic view may overlook systemic power imbalances.
