The basis of effective government is public confidence, and that confidence is endangered when ethical standards falter or appear to falter.
Interpretation
Public confidence is essential for a government to function effectively, and this confidence can be threatened by ethical lapses.
In this quote, John F. Kennedy emphasizes the crucial relationship between public trust and the effectiveness of governance. When a government fails to uphold ethical standards, it risks eroding the confidence of its citizens, which is fundamental for maintaining order, legitimacy, and cooperation in society. Ethical integrity is thus portrayed as a cornerstone for effective leadership and governance.
In practice
During a political debate to emphasize the importance of ethics in leadership.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
Our Country will, I believe, sooner forgive an Officer for attacking his Enemy than for letting it alone.
You need people who can walk their companies into the future rather than back them into the future.
Leadership flows from inner character and integrity of ambition, which inspires others to lend themselves to your organization's mission.
One cannot govern with 'buts'.
The authority you establish must emerge naturally from your character, from the particular strengths you possess.
We did not raise armies for glory or for conquest.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.