16 quotes
In that spirit, and in no other, is the power to solve social problems and carry civilization onward.
Social Problems (1883)
For at the bottom of every social problem we will find a social wrong.
Social Problems (1883)
The intelligence required for the solving of social problems is not a thing of the mere intellect.
Social Problems (1883)
More is given to us than to any people at any time before; and, therefore, more is required of us.
Social Problems (1883)
In securing the equal rights of these we shall secure the equal rights of all.
Social Problems (1883)
If thinking men are few, they are for that reason all the more powerful. Let no man imagine that he has no influence. Whoever he may be, and wherever he may be placed, the man who thinks becomes a light and a power.
Social Problems (1883)
The great work of the present for every man, and every organization of men, who would improve social conditions, is the work of education — the propagation of ideas. It is only as it aids this that anything else can avail.
Social Problems (1883)
The progress of civilization necessitates the giving of greater and greater attention and intelligence to public affairs.
Social Problems (1883)
A great change is going on all over the civilized world similar to that infeudation which, in Europe, during the rise of the feudal system, converted free proprietors into vassals, and brought all society into subordination to a hierarchy of wealth and privilege.
Social Problems (1883)
How can a man be said to have a country where he has no right to a square inch of soil...
Social Problems (1883)
Whoever becomes imbued with a noble idea kindles a flame from which other torches are lit, and influences those with whom he comes in contact, be they few or many.
Social Problems (1883)
I ask no one who may read this book to accept my views. I ask him to think for himself.
Social Problems (1883)
To prevent government from becoming corrupt and tyrannous, its organization and methods should be as simple as possible, its functions be restricted to those necessary to the common welfare, and in all its parts it should be kept as close to the people and as directly within their control as may be.
Social Problems (1883)
As man is so constituted that it is utterly impossible for him to attain happiness save by seeking the happiness of others, so does it seem to be of the nature of things that individuals and classes can obtain their own just rights only by struggling for the rights of others.
Social Problems (1883)
I am firmly convinced, as I have already said, that to effect any great social improvement, it is sympathy rather than self-interest, the sense of duty rather than the desire for self-advancement, that must be appealed to.
Social Problems (1883)
Civilization, as it progresses, requires a higher conscience, a keener sense of justice, a warmer brotherhood, a wider, loftier, truer public spirit. Falling these, civilization must pass into destruction. It cannot be maintained on the ethics of savagery.
Social Problems (1883)