On the record
The enlightened man, the civilized man, is nevertheless a man; that he may not oppress, it is necessary that it should be impossible for him to oppress.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
He argues that true civilization requires the impossibility of oppression, regardless of one's enlightenment.
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More from Charles Sumner
It is true, doubtless, that there are various races of men; but there is but one great Human Family, in which Caucasian, Ethiopian, Chinese, and Indian are all brothers, children of one Father, and heirs to one happiness.
Men are erring and mortal; principles are steadfast and immortal.
In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.
Endeavor, for a moment, by comparison with other interests, to grapple with this sum.
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