Agree Quote by William James
“We must frankly confess, then, using our empirical common sense and ordinary practical prejudices, that in the world that actually is, the virtues of sympathy, charity, and non-resistance may be, and often have been, manifested in excess. ... You will agree to this in general, for in spite of the Gospel, in spite of Quakerism, in spite of Tolstoi, you believe in fighting fire with fire, in shooting down usurpers, locking up thieves, and freezing out vagabonds and swindlers.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Varieties of Religious Experience, 1902
Human nature often over‑applies virtues like sympathy and charity, leading to excess; people justify harsh actions against perceived wrongdoers despite moral teachings.
In simple terms: Virtues can be overdone, prompting harsh judgments.
Key Takeaway
Beware of excess in moral actions.
Themes
morality
virtue
excess
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- justice systems
- social activism
- community mediation
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- When does compassion become counterproductive?
- How can balance be achieved between justice and mercy?
A Different Perspective
Excessive virtue may suppress dissenting perspectives.
![“While I deplored and denounced the incivilities of Quakerism in my day (such as the going naked in public by some at sundry times), my position regarding their religious views was, "They will answer to God, at their own peril, in the great day approaching [that is, the day of divine judgment]."” quote by Roger Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e00/roger-williams-11064_answers_while-i-deplored-and-denounced-the-inciv_2157142.jpg)
![“I will not agree to have this bill [to repeal DADT ] go forward, because our economy is in the tank.” quote by John McCain](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c2c/john-mccain-465_agree_i-will-not-agree-to-have-this-bill-to-re_7321.jpg)
