Quote by Henry David Thoreau

All voting is a sort of gaming, like checkers or backgammon, with a slight moral tinge to it, a playing with right and wrong, with moral questions; and betting naturally accompanies it. The character of the voters is not stakes. I cast my vote, perchance, as I think right; but I am not vitally concerned that that right should prevail. I am willing to leave it to the majority. Its obligation, therefore, never exceeds that of expediency. Even voting FOR THE RIGHT is DOING nothing for it. It is only expressing to men feebly your desire that it should prevail.


All voting is a sort of gaming, like checkers or backgammon,

Summary

This quote by Henry David Thoreau suggests that voting, in essence, is a game that involves moral principles and decisions. It acknowledges that voting comes with a sense of moral judgment and the possibility of winning or losing. Thoreau argues that individuals may vote based on what they perceive as right, but they are not deeply invested in the outcome. He believes that even voting for what is morally right does not actively contribute to the cause, but merely expresses a faint desire for its success. Thoreau's perspective highlights the limited power and efficacy of voting in effecting significant change.

By Henry David Thoreau
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