Be a slave Quote by Thomas Paine
“If the present generation, or any other, are disposed to be slaves, it does not lessen the right of the succeeding generation to be free: wrongs cannot have a legal descent.”
About This Quote
Source Political pamphlet: Rights of Man, 1791
Freedom is a birthright; oppression cannot be inherited, and each generation must claim it.
In simple terms: Freedom cannot be passed down as a legal right; it must be earned.
Key Takeaway
Defend liberty for future generations.
Themes
freedom
rights
generational justice
slavery
Mood
determined
hopeful
urgent
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- colonial rule
- modern authoritarianism
- social movements
Key Concepts
political theory
human rights
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do we have to protect freedom?
- How can societies prevent inherited oppression?
A Different Perspective
Legal inheritance cannot guarantee true freedom.
![“Each succeeding generation of Gods follow the example of the preceding ones: each generation have their wives, who raise up from the fruit of their loins immortal spirits: when their families become numerous, they organize new worlds for them. [T]hey place their families upon the same.” quote by Orson Pratt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6e5/orson-pratt-16868_example_each-succeeding-generation-of-gods-follo_2973068.jpg)
