Skip to content

Duty Quote by Theodore Roosevelt

“Much has been given us, and much will rightfully be expected from us. We have duties to others and duties to ourselves, and we can shrink neither.” quote by Theodore Roosevelt
Download Open image
“Much has been given us, and much will rightfully be expected from us. We have duties to others and duties to ourselves, and we can shrink neither.”

Theodore Roosevelt

About This Quote

Source Speech: Roosevelt's Inaugural Address, 1905

We receive much and must be expected to give back; we have obligations to others and ourselves that cannot be ignored.

In simple terms: We must fulfill duties to others and ourselves.

Key Takeaway

Balance personal and societal responsibilities.

Themes

duty responsibility ethics

Mood

determined serious

Type

political motivational

When to use this quote

  • community service
  • leadership
  • self‑care

Key Concepts

political philosophy civic duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you prioritize your obligations?
  • What duties do you feel most compelled to fulfill?
A Different Perspective

Conflicting duties can cause stress.

2.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Theodore Roosevelt

Explore all 876 Theodore Roosevelt quotes

More Duty quotes

Browse all 4,973 Duty quotes