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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lowell argues that human identity exists naturally before society assigns civic roles like citizenship.
In plain terms
Being human happens before being a citizen.
What can you take from it?
Human identity precedes civic status.

Where it applies

  • political theory
  • human rights
  • identity

Putting it to work

  • prioritize human rights
  • question civic identity

Questions to consider

  • What makes a citizen?
  • Is citizenship natural or made?

Another view

It simplifies the complex relationship between individuals and the state.

More from James Russell Lowell

  1. I first drew in New England's air, and from her hardy breast Sucked in the tyrant-hating milk that will not let me rest.

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  2. The birch, most shy and lady-like of trees, Her poverty, as best she may, retrieves, And hints at her foregone gentilities With some saved relics of her wealth…

    Permalink to quote #14

  3. The nurse of full-grown souls is solitude.

    Permalink to quote #11

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