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Ballots Quote by N. T. Wright

“Christians living in a democracy should always vote if they can. If they cannot in conscience bring themselves to vote for any of the candidates on offer (in the UK quite often there are several candidates for a parliamentary seat) they might consider deliberately spoiling the ballot paper as a…” quote by N. T. Wright
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“Christians living in a democracy should always vote if they can. If they cannot in conscience bring themselves to vote for any of the candidates on offer (in the UK quite often there are several candidates for a parliamentary seat) they might consider deliberately spoiling the ballot paper as a sad protest which still says 'but I believe in being involved'.”

N. T. Wright

About This Quote

Source Essay: Christian Ethics, 2000s

Democratic Christians should vote when possible; if conscience blocks, a spoiled ballot signals engaged protest.

In simple terms: Vote if you can; otherwise protest responsibly.

Key Takeaway

Engage responsibly.

Themes

civic duty conscience political protest

Mood

thoughtful ethical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • faith communities
  • political activism

Key Concepts

ethics democracy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is protest without voting effective?
  • How can conscience guide civic action?
A Different Perspective

Spoiling may be seen as disengagement.

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