"Neutrality is at times a graver sin than belligerence"

In this quote, Louis D. Brandeis is recommending that staying neutral in a scenario can in some cases be worse than actively taking part in dispute. This breaks the typical belief that neutrality is a serene and safe stance. Brandeis is indicating that by selecting to remain neutral, one is basically allowing oppression or misdeed to continue without taking a stand against it. This can be seen as a betrayal of one's own moral values and a failure to defend what is right. In contrast, belligerence, or aggressiveness, may a minimum of reveal a desire to fight for one's beliefs. Overall, Brandeis is highlighting the importance of taking a position and not being contented in the face of injustice.