Courage Quote by Martin Luther King Jr
““Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles; Cowardice is submissive surrender to circumstances. Courage breeds creativity; Cowardice represses fear and is mastered by it. Cowardice asks the question, is it safe? Expediency ask the question, is it politic? Vanity asks the question, is it popular? But conscience ask the question, is it right? And there comes a time when we must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because it is right.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, 1963
True courage means acting on principle despite fear, while cowardice seeks safety, approval, or convenience over what is right.
In simple terms: Courage chooses right over easy.
Key Takeaway
Act on principle, not convenience.
Themes
courage
principle
ethics
leadership
integrity
Mood
determined
serious
inspirational
Type
aphilosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- activism
- leadership decisions
- making decisions
- standing up for justice
- personal dilemmas
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What principle would you stand for if it cost you popularity?
- How do you balance safety with moral duty?
A Different Perspective
Courage can lead to isolation or backlash when opposing popular or safe choices.
