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About this quote

What does it mean?
Freedom requires reciprocity; to possess liberty yourself, you must grant it to others.
In plain terms
You can only have freedom if you give it to others.
What can you take from it?
Grant liberty to others to secure it for yourself.

Where it applies

  • governing policies
  • community relations
  • personal interactions

Putting it to work

  • advocate for civil liberties
  • respect others' rights
  • promote tolerance

Questions to consider

  • How do you practice reciprocity in your daily life?
  • What stops people from sharing freedom?

Another view

Power dynamics may prevent some from granting liberty even if they wish to.

More from Robert G. Ingersoll

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