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For action is indeed the sole medium of expression for ethics.
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“For action is indeed the sole medium of expression for ethics.”

Jane Addams

Source
Democracy and Social Ethics
Date
1902
Meaning

Meaning of “For action is indeed the sole medium of…”

Addams argues that ethical ideas become meaningful as social morality only when they are tested through concrete choices and conduct rather than remaining abstract commentary.

Source context

Where does it come from?

Democracy and Social Ethics, chapter “Political Reform,” Project Gutenberg #15487. Addams immediately contrasts moral action with merely speculating about morality, placing the sentence inside her Progressive Era social-ethics argument.

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CommunityCompassionHelping OthersResponsibilityServiceShortThought-Provoking Quotes That Invite ReflectionEthicsGood Deeds
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Source details

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Source details

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Source details

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Jeremy Bentham · An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation · 1789
Meaning & context

Bentham shifts the basis for moral consideration of animals away from intelligence or speech and toward the capacity to experience suffering.

Source details

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Great part of that order which reigns among mankind is not the effect of government.
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“Great part of that order which reigns among mankind is not the effect of government.”

Thomas Paine · Rights of Man · 1791–1792
Meaning & context

Paine argues that everyday social order also grows from mutual dependence, custom, exchange, and cooperation rather than being created entirely by government.

Source details

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The most influential of all the virtues are those which are the most in request for daily use.
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“The most influential of all the virtues are those which are the most in request for daily use.”

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Meaning & context

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Source details

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