Not because Socrates said so, but because it is in truth my own disposition - and perchance to some excess - I look upon all men as my compatriots, and embrace a Pole as a Frenchman, making less account of the national than of the universal and common bond.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- I see all humans as compatriots, regardless of nationality.
- In plain terms
- I treat every human as fellow citizens not just my countrymen.
- What can you take from it?
- Universal human connection matters more than national identity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define fellow citizens?
- Do borders limit empathy?
Another view
National identity can provide useful social cohesion.
More from Michel de Montaigne
It (marriage) happens as with cages: the birds without despair to get in, and those within despair of getting out.
Permalink to quote #42 There is no man so good that if he placed all his actions and thoughts under the scrutiny of the laws, he would not deserve hanging ten times in his life.
Permalink to quote #44 Chaque homme porte la forme, entiere de l'humaine condition.
Permalink to quote #41
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