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About this quote

What does it mean?
A nation lacking true independence cannot act at a higher moral level toward humanity.
In plain terms
Independence is needed for moral leadership.
What can you take from it?
Protect national sovereignty to act responsibly.

Where it applies

  • international diplomacy
  • national policy

Putting it to work

  • foreign policy autonomy
  • civic education

Questions to consider

  • Why is independence linked to moral authority?
  • Can dependent nations still act ethically?

Another view

Independence does not automatically lead to ethical behavior.

More from Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

  1. Justice is the infrastructure of proprietorship.

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  2. Religion is an issue of conscience. Everyone is free to conform to the commands of their conscience. We show respect for religion. We are not against a way of …

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  3. It is only teachers who are saving nations.

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