Conscience Quote by Marquis de Lafayette
“All the evils of France have been produced less by the perversity of the wicked and the violence of fools than by the hesitation of the weak, the compromises of conscience, and the tardiness of patriotism. Let every deputy, every Frenchman show what he feels, what he thinks, and we are saved!”
About This Quote
Source Speech: French National Assembly, 1791
Weakness, indecision, and moral compromise cause greater harm than outright evil, urging decisive, patriotic expression.
In simple terms: Inaction and compromise cause more damage than overt wrongdoing.
Key Takeaway
Speak boldly and act patriotically.
Themes
civic duty
political responsibility
morality
patriotism
Mood
determined
urgent
reflective
Type
political
inspirational
civic
When to use this quote
- parliamentary debates
- public protests
- community organizing
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Ethics
civic engagement
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals balance conscience with civic duty?
- What risks arise when patriotism is delayed?
A Different Perspective
Overcoming fear of conflict may be difficult and can lead to polarization.
![“If you were lost for America, there is nobody who could keep the army and the revolution [going] for six months.” quote by Marquis de Lafayette](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa1/marquis-de-lafayette-9735_america_if-you-were-lost-for-america-there-is-no_138543.jpg)
![“[D]on't grow old. With age comes caution, which is another name for cowardice… Whatever else you do in life, don't cultivate a conscience. Without a conscience a man may never be said to grow old. This is an age of very old young men.” quote by Hesketh Pearson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/076/hesketh-pearson-35291_age_d-on-t-grow-old-with-age-comes-caution-w_14010.jpg)