Associates Quote by Theodore Roosevelt
“There is a point, of course, where a man must take the isolated peak and break with all his associates for clear principle; but until that time comes he must work, if he would be of use, with men as they are. As long as the good in them overbalances the evil, let him work with them for the best that can be obtained.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: The Man in the Arena, 1910
One must sometimes separate from others for principle, yet generally collaborate with them while their good outweighs their flaws.
In simple terms: Balance principle with practical cooperation.
Key Takeaway
Work with others while focusing on common good.
Themes
principle
collaboration
pragmatism
Mood
inspirational
strategic
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- team projects
- community service
- political negotiations
- business partnerships
Key Concepts
ethical leadership
collective action
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you stand alone for principle?
- How do you assess the good versus evil in others?
A Different Perspective
Strict separation may hinder needed teamwork.
![“The young man [Turgot] destined for an ecclesiastical career was placed within walls carefully designed to keep out all currents of new thought; his studies, his reading, his professors, his associates, all were combined to keep from him any results of observation or reflection save those…” quote by Andrew Dickson White](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5d4/andrew-dickson-white-24254_associates_the-young-man-turgot-destined-for-an-ecc_3146.jpg)
