On the record
According to the definition of a slave, he has no will of his own, and can give no “consent” to government.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner argues that a slave, by definition, lacks personal autonomy and cannot consent to governance.
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It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.
Their existence is a disgrace to civilization; for it implies the common consent of nations to the Arbitrament of War, as regulated by these laws.
The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
More precious far at that moment the consolation that he had labored for his fellow-men, and the joyous confidence that all his cares had helped the Progress of his race!
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