I observe that there are two entirely different theories according to which individual men seek to get on in the world. One theory leads a man to pull down everybody around him in order to climb up on them to a higher place. The other leads a man to help everybody around him in order that he may go up with them.
Elihu RootHonest people, mistakenly believing in the justice of their cause, are led to support injustice.
Elihu RootIt is only through the power of association that those of any calling exercise due influence in their communities.
Elihu RootThe theoretical postulate of all diplomatic discussion between nations is the assumed willingness of every nation to do justice.
Elihu RootSecretary of War Stanton used to get out of patience with Lincoln because he was all the time pardoning men who ought to be shot.
Elihu RootI guess you will have to go to jail. If that is the result of not understanding the Income Tax Law, I will meet you there. We shall have a merry, merry time, for all our friends will be there. It will be an intellectual center, for no one understands the Income Tax Law except persons who have not sufficient intelligence to understand the questions that arise under it.
Elihu RootI observe that there are two entirely different theories according to which individual men seek to get on in the world. One theory leads a man to pull down everybody around him in order to climb up on them to a higher place. The other leads a man to help everybody around him in order that he may go up with them.
Elihu Root