"If it be not a sin, an open, flagrant violation of all the rules of justice and humanity, to hold these slaves in bondage, it is indeed folly to put ourselves to any trouble and expense in order to free them"
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Samuel Hopkins, a prominent theologian and early abolitionist, addresses the ethical and ethical dimensions of slavery in this thought-provoking quote. At its core, the statement challenges the reasons frequently made in support of slavery and faces the moral ambivalence surrounding the issue.
Hopkins begins by recommending that if holding servants is not considered a sin, then it would represent a gross disobedience versus the concepts of justice and humanity. By using the terms "open" and "flagrant", he underscores the blatant nature of this transgression. It is not a concealed or subtle wrongdoing but rather a clear and undeniable breach of ethical conduct. The expression "all the rules of justice and humankind" suggests a universal understanding of morality that transcends personal beliefs and societal norms. It means an innate human recognition of right and wrong, suggesting that slavery unequivocally falls within the realm of injustice.
Continuing his argument, Hopkins states that failing to acknowledge slavery as a sin renders any efforts to eliminate it senseless. He uses the term "folly" to explain the futility of trying to attend to an issue that is not basically acknowledged as wrong. This highlights the significance of social agreement in driving substantial change. By asserting that it is irrational to purchase actions focused on releasing slaves without first admitting the immorality of their chains, Hopkins stresses the requirement for a shift in collective consciousness.
In essence, Hopkins calls for a recommendation of slavery as a profound ethical wrong. This recognition, he argues, is a prerequisite for significant action towards emancipation. By framing slavery as an infraction of universal concepts of justice and humankind, Hopkins not only condemns the institution but also conjures up an ethical vital for its abolition. His words challenge readers to confront their own ethical beliefs and consider the ramifications of inaction in the face of oppression.
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