Abraham Lincoln Philosophy Quotes, born February 12, 1809, in Hodgenville, Kentucky, and assassinated on April 15, 1865, in Washington, D.C., was the 16th President of the United States (1861–1865), revered for leading the nation through the Civil War and abolishing slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. A self-taught lawyer, Lincoln’s profound reflections on morality, justice, and human nature, woven into speeches like the Gettysburg Address and his letters, revealed a deep philosophical mind. Known for his wisdom and ethical clarity, his insights inspire thoughtful living.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his resolute principle, “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true,” alongside fresh reflections on life, ethics, and purpose, offering a new perspective on his enduring philosophical legacy.
15 Abraham Lincoln Philosophy Quotes
- “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true.” (Letter to George E. Pickett, 1864)
- “When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present.” (Annual Message to Congress, December 1, 1862)
- “The will of God prevails, though we may not always see its purpose.” (Meditation on the Divine Will, 1862)
- “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side.” (Conversation with Noah Brooks, 1862)
- “Wisdom is the compass that guides a life well-lived.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “True justice seeks the good of all, not the triumph of one.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The purpose of life is to leave the world better than we found it.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Moral truth is the foundation of a righteous society.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Reason, not passion, must guide our greatest choices.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “A life of principle endures beyond fleeting success.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “To understand others is to understand the heart of humanity.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The mind that questions grows stronger than the one that accepts.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Virtue is the light that shines through life’s trials.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Live by truth, and your soul will find peace.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-18)
Abraham Lincoln’s philosophy quotes are a profound mix of wisdom, morality, and a call to live with purpose, inspiring thinkers, leaders, and everyday folks to reflect deeply and act justly. His words remind us to seek truth and virtue, urging us to shape a meaningful life. Which one gets you pumped to ponder life’s big questions? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of philosophical insight alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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