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Deep Quote by John C. Calhoun

“Remember, it is a deep principle of our nature not to regard the safety of those who do not regard their own. If you are indifferent to your own safety, you must not be surprised if those less interested should become more so.” quote by John C. Calhoun
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“Remember, it is a deep principle of our nature not to regard the safety of those who do not regard their own. If you are indifferent to your own safety, you must not be surprised if those less interested should become more so.”

John C. Calhoun

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to the South Carolina Legislature, 1858

Neglecting personal safety breeds indifference toward others, prompting reciprocal disregard.

In simple terms: Ignoring your safety leads to others ignoring you.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize personal safety to respect others.

Themes

self‑care reciprocity social responsibility

Mood

serious instructive

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • public policy
  • personal health
  • interpersonal relations

Key Concepts

political theory ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the consequences of personal neglect?
  • How can societies encourage mutual safety?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest can conflict with collective welfare.

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