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Big things Quote by William James

“I am done with great things and big things, great institutions and big success, and I am for those tiny, invisible molecular moral forces that work from individual to individual, creeping through the crannies of the world like so many rootlets, or like the capillary oozing of water, yet which if…” quote by William James
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“I am done with great things and big things, great institutions and big success, and I am for those tiny, invisible molecular moral forces that work from individual to individual, creeping through the crannies of the world like so many rootlets, or like the capillary oozing of water, yet which if you give them time, will rend the hardest monuments of man's pride.”

William James

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Will to Believe, William James, 1896

Small, invisible moral forces act collectively, eventually undermining great pride.

In simple terms: Tiny moral forces can erode big achievements over time.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate small moral actions for lasting impact.

Themes

ethics social influence collective behavior humility

Mood

inspirational thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • education
  • policy making

Key Concepts

Micro‑actions social change cultural shifts

Questions to Reflect On

  • What tiny moral actions do you practice daily?
  • How can small forces reshape societal values?
A Different Perspective

Impact may be imperceptible until it accumulates.

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