Quotes Library

January 30, 2025

When great changes occur in history, when great principles are involved, as a rule the majority are wrong. The minority are right.

Eugene Debs (1855-1926), founder of the Socialist Party of America, Speeches (1928), Jay p.111

Are you ever part of this minority? Or are you usually—with the majority—on the wrong side of historical change? Or great principles? Recall three times you missed a chance to be with a minority that was right in the end?

Of course, because only a minority can see and appreciate the future at any one time, and never with complete accuracy. For the majority to change course, even when great changes are afoot all around, is as difficult as turning an ocean liner in mid-channel.


More Quotes

June 30, 2025
No government has ever been, or can ever be, wherein time-servers and blockheads will not be uppermost.
February 14, 2025
Whatever else may be shaken, there are some facts established beyond warring; for virtue is better than vice
July 7, 2025
The conduct of a wise politician is ever suited to the present posture of affairs
Page 14 of 63