QuoteProject
The object of government in peace and in war is not the glory of rulers or of races, but the happiness of common man.
William Beveridge
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Government's true goal should be the happiness of ordinary people, not the fame of leaders or nations.

This quote emphasizes that the fundamental purpose of government, whether in peacetime or wartime, should prioritize the well-being and happiness of the general population rather than the ambitions or glorification of those in power. It suggests that true leadership is measured by how well it serves the needs and happiness of its citizens, reflecting a government that is accountable to the people it governs.

Themes

GovernmentHappinessCommon ManLeadershipPeaceWar

In practice

Example use cases

During a political rally to emphasize the importance of serving the people's needs over political ambitions.

More from William Beveridge

Ignorance is an evil weed, which dictators may cultivate among their dupes, but which no democracy can afford among its citizens.
William BeveridgeRead

Similar quotes

In America the President reigns for four years, and Journalism governs forever and ever.
Oscar WildeRead
I believe that Brazil was prepared to elect a woman. Why? Because Brazilian women achieved that. I didn't come here by myself, by my own merits. We are a majority here in this country.
Dilma RousseffRead
Jealousy, and local policy mix too much in all our public councils for the good government of the Union. In a words, the confederation appears to me to be little more than a shadow without the substance . . . .
George WashingtonRead
Inequality also distorts our democracy. It gives an outsized voice to the few who can afford high-priced lobbyists and unlimited campaign contributions, and runs the risk of selling out our democracy to the highest bidder. And it leaves everyone else rightly suspicious that the system in Washington is rigged against them - that our elected representatives aren't looking out for the interests of most Americans.
Barack ObamaRead
The people are responsible for the character of their Congress.
James A. GarfieldRead
Politics in America is the binding secular religion.
Theodore WhiteRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by William Beveridge | QuoteProject