Art Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
““One man thinks justice consists in paying debts, and has no measure in his abhorrence of another who is very remiss in this duty and makes the creditor wait tediously. But that second man has his own way of looking at things; asks himself Which debt must I pay first, the debt to the rich, or the debt to the poor? the debt of money or the debt of thought to mankind, of genius to nature? For you, O broker, there is not other principle but arithmetic. For me, commerce is of trivial import; love, faith, truth of character, the aspiration of man, these are sacred;””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
The quote contrasts a mercantile view of justice focused on literal debts with a higher moral view that values love, faith, truth, and humanity over material obligations.
In simple terms: Justice isn’t just paying money; it’s about higher moral duties.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize ethical values over mere transactions.
Themes
justice
ethics
humanity
materialism
philosophy
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal relationships
- public policy
- philanthropy
Key Concepts
moral hierarchy
intrinsic value
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What debts of the heart are you neglecting?
- How do you balance financial obligations with moral ones?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on material debts can ignore deeper human needs.
