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Affluence Quote by William Wilberforce

“No man has a right to be idle. Where is it that in such a world as this, that health, and leisure, and affluence may not find some ignorance to instruct, some wrong to redress, some want to supply, some misery to alleviate?” quote by William Wilberforce
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“No man has a right to be idle. Where is it that in such a world as this, that health, and leisure, and affluence may not find some ignorance to instruct, some wrong to redress, some want to supply, some misery to alleviate?”

William Wilberforce

About This Quote

Source Speech: Parliamentary debate, 1792, Britain

Advocates that idleness is unjust; society must address ignorance, injustice, need, and suffering through active effort.

In simple terms: Idle people should help solve problems.

Key Takeaway

Take action to help others.

Themes

social responsibility justice activism economics

Mood

concerned determined

Type

ethical activist

When to use this quote

  • community service
  • education programs
  • charitable work
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

humanitarianism social contract public duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What problems can you address today?
  • How does idleness affect community health?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual autonomy or capacity to contribute.

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