Class Quote by William Graham Sumner
“For A to sit down and think, What shall I do? is commonplace; but to think what B ought to do is interesting, romantic, moral, self-flattering, and public-spirited all at once. It satisfies a great number of human weaknesses at once. To go on and plan what a whole class of people ought to do is to feel one's self a power on earth, to win a public position, to clothe one's self in dignity. Hence we have an unlimited supply of reformers, philanthropists, humanitarians, and would-be managers-in-general of society.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "What Shall I Do?" by William Graham Sumner, 1880s
The quote contrasts personal contemplation with the grandiose desire to dictate others' actions, highlighting how such ambition satisfies ego, morality, and social status, leading many to become reformers or self‑appointed leaders.
In simple terms: Thinking about oneself is simple; deciding for others feels powerful.
Key Takeaway
Beware of ego‑driven grand plans.
Themes
ego
morality
leadership
social influence
reform
Mood
reflective
critical
inspirational
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- nonprofit leadership
- community organizing
- policy advocacy
- personal career planning
Key Concepts
hubris
public service
psychology of power
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates your desire to guide others?
- How do you balance personal humility with public ambition?
A Different Perspective
It can ignore practical limits and marginalize those affected.
![“The yearning after equality [in economic outcome] is the offspring of envy and covetousness, and there is no possible plan for satisfying that yearning which can do aught else than rob A to give to B; consequently all such plans nourish some of the meanest vices of human nature, waste capital, and…” quote by William Graham Sumner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9b4/william-graham-sumner-5011_can-do_the-yearning-after-equality-in-economic_454035.jpg)
