Quote by Jacob Gould Schurman, Excerpt fr

I should like you to remember two or three fixed principles which shine through all the history of mankind. The first is that mere bigness is not greatness. There is no dignity, no nobleness, in mere bulk. The true greatness of a nation depends upon the character of its ethical ideal and the energy with which it pursues it. I count it a peculiar good fortune for the American nation that it was conceived in liberty and intelligence and swaddled in order and justice, and that its early years were watched over by men who saw in such an organization the best hopes of the human race. But the baptism of the fathers does not guarantee the consecration of their children; and the republic can be kept true to its ideals only by the devoted efforts of each succeeding generation. Thus is it the privilege of the quiet scholar, who sees and speaks the truth, to shape from his study the policy of nations and the course of history.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of principles and ideals in determining the greatness of a nation. It argues that the size or mere power of a nation does not make it great, but rather its commitment to a strong ethical ideal and the passionate pursuit of it. The quote also highlights the significance of the founding principles of a nation, such as liberty, intelligence, order, and justice. However, it warns that these ideals must be continuously upheld by each generation, and that scholars who speak the truth and shape policy have a crucial role in maintaining a nation's integrity and influencing its history.