And now let any Union man who complains of the measure, test himself by writing down in one line that he is for subduing the rebellion by force of arms; and in the next, that he is for taking these hundred and thirty thousand men from the Union side, and placing them where they would be but for the measure he condemns. If he can not face his case so stated, it is only because he can not face the truth.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lincoln challenges critics of Union policy to admit they support using troops to crush the rebellion while also supporting troop withdrawal.
- In plain terms
- Critics must admit their own logic is inconsistent if they oppose troop measures.
- What can you take from it?
- Check your arguments for internal contradictions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are your positions internally consistent?
Another view
Policies may have valid nuances.
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