Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
John AdamsRead
The happiness of society is the end of government.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The main goal of government should be to ensure the happiness of its citizens.
John Adams asserts that the ultimate purpose of government is to foster the well-being and happiness of society. This reflects the idea that governments should prioritize the needs and happiness of the people they serve, positioning societal welfare as a fundamental objective of governance.
Themes
HappinessGovernmentSocietyWell-BeingWelfare
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civic responsibility, one might say, 'As John Adams said, the happiness of society is the end of government, highlighting our duty to contribute to the greater good.'
More from John Adams
All quotes βProperty monopolized or in the possession of a few is a curse to mankind.
John AdamsRead
Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
John AdamsRead
There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
John AdamsRead
Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
John AdamsRead
The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
John AdamsRead
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The extravagant expenditure of public money is an evil not to be measured by the value of that money to the people who are taxed for it.
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In America the President reigns for four years, and Journalism governs forever and ever.
Oscar WildeRead