He has the right to criticize who has the heart to help.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lincoln argues that moral authority to criticize comes from a willingness to help.
- In plain terms
- You can only criticize if you also help.
- What can you take from it?
- Constructive criticism requires a supportive intent.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Should critics help solve problems?
- What makes criticism legitimate?
Another view
It may silence necessary criticism from those unable to help.
More from Abraham Lincoln
He can compress the most words into the smallest ideas of any man I ever met.
Permalink to quote #106 I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts.
Permalink to quote #108 Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Permalink to quote #105
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