"He knows not his own strength who hath not met adversity."
William Samuel Johnson
Politician, Lawyer
William Samuel Johnson was a prominent American statesman and intellectual known for his advocacy of reason and individual liberty in the 18th century.
- Born
- October 14, 1722
- Died
- January 14, 1819
- Quotes
- 8
- Rank
- #6004
About William Samuel Johnson
William Samuel Johnson — Life and Legacy
William Samuel Johnson was an influential American statesman and thinker in the 18th century, recognized for his strong advocacy of reason and individual liberty. As a member of the Continental Congress and a prominent figure in the founding of the United States, he emphasized the importance of rational thought in governance and personal freedom. Johnson's philosophy centered on the belief that reason is the cornerstone of human dignity. He famously stated, 'Liberty is the power to choose,' which encapsulates his view that true freedom is rooted in the ability to make informed decisions. This perspective not only challenged the prevailing notions of authority and governance but also laid the groundwork for a more democratic society, where individual rights are paramount. His quotes continue to resonate today, as they reflect a timeless struggle for personal autonomy and rational discourse. Johnson's commitment to education as a means of fostering reason and liberty highlights his understanding of the role of informed citizens in shaping a just society. His ideas remain relevant as we navigate the complexities of freedom and governance in the modern world.
Quote collection
William Samuel Johnson quotes
8 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"You this day, gentlemen, assume new characters, enter into new relations, and consequently incur new duties. You have, by the favor of Providence and the attention of your friends, received a public education, the purpose whereof hath been to qualify you the better to serve your Creator and your country."
"Your first great duties, you are sensible, are those you owe to Heaven, to your Creator and Redeemer. Let these be ever present to your minds, and exemplified in your lives and conduct."
"Remember...that you are redeemed of the Lord [Ephesians 1:7]-that you are bought with a price [1 Corinthians 6:20], even the inestimable price of the precious blood of the Son of God...Acquaint yourselves with Him in His word and holy ordinances."
"It seems to be the fate of man to seek all his consolations in futurity."
"Make Him your friend and protector and your felicity is secured both here and hereafter. And with respect to particular duties to Him, it is your happiness that you are well assured that he best serves his Maker, who does most good to his country and to mankind."
"Imprint deep upon your minds the principles of piety towards God, and a reverence and fear of His holy name. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and its consummation is everlasting felicity. Possess yourselves of just and elevated notions of the Divine character, attributes, and administration, and of the end and dignity of your own immortal nature as it stands related to Him."
"I ... am endeavoring ... to attend to my own duty only as a Christian. ... let us take care that our Christianity, though put to the test ... be not shaken, and that our love for things really good wax not cold."