Wayne Dyer

I spent years studying the teachings of Patanjali, and he reminded us several thousand years ago that when we are steadfast - which means that we never slip in our abstention of thoughts of harm directed toward others - then all living creatures cease to feel enmity in our presence.

American Psychologist

Anatole France

War will disappear only when men shall take no part whatever in violence and shall be ready to suffer every persecution that their abstention will bring them. It is the only way to abolish war.

French Novelist

Jose Saramago

Abstention means you stayed at home or went to the beach. By casting a blank vote, you're saying you have a political conscience but you don't agree with any of the existing parties.

Portuguese Writer

Abba Eban

If Algeria introduced a resolution declaring that the earth was flat and that Israel had flattened it, it would pass by a vote of 164 to 13 with 26 abstentions.

Israeli Diplomat

Ambrose Bierce

A total abstainer is one who abstains from everything but abstention, and especially from inactivity in the affairs of others.

American Journalist

Gilbert K. Chesterton

Chastity does not mean abstention from sexual wrong; it means something flaming, like Joan of Arc.

English Writer

Abstention is often used to remain neutral when voting on issues one doesn't want to influence.

Political Neutrality

'Abstention' emphasizes a voluntary decision, not forced, particularly in personal and health decisions.

Personal Choice

Using 'abstention' in discussions showcases objectivity or lack of bias toward the topic.

Impartiality

In legal contexts, abstention highlights a deliberate choice not to engage in the voting process.

Deliberate Action

'Abstention' is particularly formal, and often used in legal or official settings like courts or parliaments.

Formal Proceedings

Abstention can be culturally significant, often associated with religious observances and practices.

Cultural Practices

Religious abstention is a conscious restriction, done for greater spiritual or communal goals.

Mindful Restriction

 And that's why you've got the abstention in the United Nations vote. And that's why you've had very careful comments as opposed to overt and strong condemnation coming from the Indian leadership. Phil in the chat is asking, "Will this cause a fragmentation of the financial system