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America Quote by Woodrow Wilson

“Neutrality is a negative word. It is a word that does not express what America ought to feel. America has a heart, and that heart throbs with all sorts of intense sympathies... We are not trying to keep out of trouble; we are trying to preserve the foundations upon which peace can be rebuilt.” quote by Woodrow Wilson
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“Neutrality is a negative word. It is a word that does not express what America ought to feel. America has a heart, and that heart throbs with all sorts of intense sympathies... We are not trying to keep out of trouble; we are trying to preserve the foundations upon which peace can be rebuilt.”

Woodrow Wilson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to Congress, 1917

Advocates for active moral stance over neutral neutrality, urging emotional engagement in national purpose.

In simple terms: Neutrality avoids expressing America's true feelings.

Key Takeaway

Embrace and act on national values.

Themes

patriotism engagement morality politics

Mood

determined reflective

Type

political inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • public speeches
  • international crises

Key Concepts

national identity emotional responsibility peacebuilding

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should a nation balance moral passion with diplomatic caution?
  • When does emotional involvement hinder effective policy?
A Different Perspective

Neutrality can be pragmatic in complex geopolitics.

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