“Upon the subjects of which I have treated, I have spoken as I have thought. I may be wrong in regard to any or all of them; but, holding it a sound maxim that it is better only sometimes to be right than at all times to be wrong, so soon as I discover my opinions to be erroneous, I shall be ready to renounce them.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Upon the subjects of which I have treated, I have spoken as I have thought. I may be wrong in regard to any or all of them; but, holding it a sound maxim that it is better only sometimes to be right than at all times to be wrong, so soon as I discover my opinions to be erroneous, I shall be ready to renounce them.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln expresses his commitment to honesty and openness in the expression of his views. He acknowledges the possibility that his opinions may be flawed or incorrect, but he maintains that it is better to be occasionally right—making mistakes along the way—than to persist in being wrong. Lincoln emphasizes that if he discovers any errors in his thinking, he is willing to change his mind and correct his beliefs. This reflects a fundamental intellectual humility and a commitment to truth that was central to his leadership style.
Historically, this quote reflects Lincoln’s approach to governance, especially during the Civil War and his presidency. As president, Lincoln was faced with incredibly difficult decisions on issues like slavery, states’ rights, and the preservation of the Union. He was not afraid to change his positions if the circumstances warranted it, such as with the eventual Emancipation Proclamation or his evolving stance on the extension of slavery in the territories. Lincoln understood that political leadership required the ability to adapt and make decisions based on new information and changing realities. His willingness to publicly admit uncertainty or mistakes contributed to his credibility and helped him build trust among the American people.
In modern times, this quote can be seen as a call for intellectual honesty and self-reflection in public discourse. In a world where political leaders and citizens alike often face complex issues and divided opinions, Lincoln’s statement serves as a reminder that it is more virtuous to acknowledge error and adapt than to cling to incorrect beliefs out of stubbornness or pride. This message resonates in the context of modern politics, where polarization and partisanship sometimes prevent leaders from adjusting their views in the face of new evidence. Lincoln’s words encourage a willingness to engage in critical thinking and constructive debate, both of which are essential for solving contemporary social, political, and global challenges.
