Skip to content

Agreement Quote by Theodore Roosevelt

“Compromise" is so often used in a bad sense that it is difficult to remember that properly it merely describes the process of reaching an agreement. Naturally there are certain subjects on which no man can compromise. For instance, there must be no compromise under any circumstances with official…” quote by Theodore Roosevelt
Download Open image
“Compromise" is so often used in a bad sense that it is difficult to remember that properly it merely describes the process of reaching an agreement. Naturally there are certain subjects on which no man can compromise. For instance, there must be no compromise under any circumstances with official corruption, and of course no man should hesitate to say as much.”

Theodore Roosevelt

About This Quote

Source Speech: The Roosevelt Papers, 1901

Compromise means reaching agreement, not betrayal; some principles, like opposing corruption, are non‑negotiable.

In simple terms: Compromise is agreement, but some values are absolute.

Key Takeaway

Stand firm on core ethics.

Themes

ethics integrity negotiation principles

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business deals
  • political negotiations
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral absolutism political philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which values are truly non‑negotiable for you?
  • How do you balance flexibility with integrity?
A Different Perspective

Compromise can be misused to justify conceding on important issues.

4.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Theodore Roosevelt

Explore all 876 Theodore Roosevelt quotes

More Agreement quotes

Browse all 1,138 Agreement quotes