The saying is attributed to A.P. Møller and, in Danish, is usually given as “Den, der har evnen, har også pligten” – literally “the one who has the ability also has the duty”. It became one of the guiding values of the A.P. Moller-Maersk group.

Within the company it was understood as a call to contribute: those with knowledge or skill were expected to use it for the good of the enterprise rather than hold it back. More broadly, it expresses the idea that capability carries responsibility – that being able to do something can itself create an obligation to do it.

The principle is also connected to Møller’s sense of national and social duty, and to the philanthropic tradition continued through the family’s foundations. It is sometimes read as a secular echo of the idea that those with means owe something to others.

In original language (Danish)

“Den, der har evnen, har også pligten.”

Variant in original language

“Den der har evnen, har pligten.”