Assuming Quote by William H. Seward
“But assuming the same premises, to wit, that all men are equal by the law of nature and of nations, the right of property in slaves falls to the ground; for one who is equal to another cannot be the owner or property of that other.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Anti‑Slavery Address, 1859
If all men are equal by nature, owning another person contradicts that equality, rendering slavery illegitimate.
In simple terms: Equality makes slavery impossible.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for universal human rights.
Themes
equality
human rights
justice
morality
Mood
serious
determined
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- education
- activism
- public policy
Key Concepts
political philosophy
law
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What legal reforms best protect equality?
- How can societies shift cultural views on ownership?
A Different Perspective
Legal systems may resist rapid change despite moral arguments.
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