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John adams Quote by Jon Meacham

“I hate polemical politics and polemical divinity,” said John Adams. “My religion is founded on the love of God and my neighbor; on the hope of pardon for my offenses; upon contrition; upon the duty as well as the necessity of [enduring] with patience the inevitable evils of life; in the duty of…” quote by Jon Meacham
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““I hate polemical politics and polemical divinity,” said John Adams. “My religion is founded on the love of God and my neighbor; on the hope of pardon for my offenses; upon contrition; upon the duty as well as the necessity of [enduring] with patience the inevitable evils of life; in the duty of doing no wrong, but all the good I can, to the creation of which I am but an infinitesimal part.” There””

Jon Meacham

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to the Massachusetts General Court, 1775

Adams emphasizes love, forgiveness, and moral duty over partisan politics and dogmatic religion.

In simple terms: Love and moral responsibility should guide actions, not partisan conflict.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize compassion and ethical conduct.

Themes

ethics politics faith

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • community service
  • conflict resolution
  • personal reflection
  • public policy

Key Concepts

moral philosophy political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can love influence political decisions?
  • What role does forgiveness play in governance?
A Different Perspective

Idealism may clash with political realities.

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