Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. As a peacemaker the lawyer has superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: In this quote, Abraham Lincoln offers wisdom regarding conflict resolution, the legal profession, and the role of peacemaking in society. It underscores the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions and compromise over engaging in contentious and protracted litigation.
Discourage Litigation: Lincoln's call to "discourage litigation" suggests that disputes should not be the first course of action when conflicts arise. He advises against rushing to the courtroom as the primary means of resolving disputes. Instead, he encourages individuals and communities to explore alternative methods of conflict resolution that are less adversarial and more conducive to maintaining relationships.
Promote Compromise: The quote advocates for persuasion and compromise as preferred methods of resolving conflicts. By persuading neighbors to find common ground and reach agreements, people can often achieve more equitable and amicable solutions to their problems. Compromise fosters cooperation and allows parties to find mutually acceptable outcomes.
The Role of Lawyers as Peacemakers: Lincoln acknowledges the pivotal role of lawyers in facilitating peaceful resolutions. He suggests that lawyers have a unique opportunity to be "good men" by promoting harmony and resolution rather than perpetuating conflict. This perspective challenges the stereotype of lawyers as merely litigators and highlights their potential to be peacemakers and problem solvers.
Abundance of Legal Business: The quote's closing statement, "There will still be business enough," reminds us that there will always be legal matters to address. However, Lincoln implies that not all disputes necessitate litigation, and many can be resolved through compromise and negotiation. This perspective encourages a more judicious and measured approach to legal matters.
In essence, Abraham Lincoln's quote encourages us to prioritize peaceful resolution and compromise over adversarial litigation when conflicts arise. It recognizes the potential for lawyers to play a crucial role in promoting peace and emphasizes the enduring need for legal professionals who focus on constructive problem-solving and peacemaking rather than solely pursuing contentious legal battles.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. As a peacemaker the lawyer has superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough." is often attributed to Abraham Lincoln (Bio / Quotes). Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States and led the country through the Civil War, preserving the Union and ending slavery.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
