In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Patriots are few and despised at the start of a change, but once the cause succeeds it becomes easy and safe to be called a patriot.
- In plain terms
- Early patriots are rare and hated; later many join when it’s safe.
- What can you take from it?
- Courageous dissent is costly until success makes it popular.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes people join a cause only after it succeeds?
- How can early dissent be protected?
Another view
Success can mask the original bravery required.
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