"Our Constitution recognises no other power than that of persuasion, for enforcing religious observances"
- Richard Mentor Johnson
About this Quote
This quote by Richard Mentor Johnson is describing the power of the United States Constitution in concerns to spiritual observances. Johnson is saying that the Constitution does not allow for any other power than persuasion to be used to impose spiritual observances. This indicates that the Constitution does not enable any kind of browbeating or force to be utilized to make people observe religious practices. This is a crucial point as it makes sure that individuals are free to practice their religion without fear of being required to do so. This quote likewise highlights the importance of the Constitution in securing the rights of individuals to practice their faith without worry of persecution. It is a reminder that the Constitution exists to safeguard the rights of all citizens and make sure that everybody is free to practice their religious beliefs without worry of being required to do so.
"Power is not of a man. Wealth does not center in the person of the wealthy. Celebrity is not inherent in any personality. To be celebrated, to be wealthy, to have power requires access to major institutions"