Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
The Bible and its teachings helped form the basis for the Founding Fathers' abiding belief in the inalienable rights of the individual, rights which they found implicit in the Bible's teachings of the inherent worth and dignity of each individual. This same sense of man patterned the convictions of those who framed the English system of law inherited by our own Nation, as well as the ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the influence of the Bible on fundamental rights and values in the formation of American law and governance.
Ronald Reagan highlights the significant impact that biblical teachings have had on the moral and philosophical framework of the Founding Fathers, asserting that these teachings support the belief in the inalienable rights of individuals. This belief has not only shaped the American legal system but also influenced important documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, reflecting a deep connection between faith and the principles of personal dignity and worth.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating for human rights, one might quote this to highlight the moral foundation of personal liberties.
More from Ronald Reagan
All quotes →Our status as a free society and world power is not based on brute strength. When we've taken up arms, it has been for the defense of freedom for ourselves and for other peaceful nations who needed our help. But now, faced with the development of weapons with immense destructive power, we've no choice but to maintain ready defense forces that are second to none. Yes, the cost is high, but the price of neglect would be infinitely higher.
I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
I'm not a politician by profession. I am a citizen who decided I had to be personally involved in order to stand up for my own values and beliefs. My candidacy is based on my record, and for that matter, my entire life.
My fellow citizens, our nation is poised for greatness. We must do what we know is right, and do it with all our might. Let history say of us: "These were golden years - when the American Revolution was reborn, when freedom gained new life, and America reached for her best."
We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
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The more refined one is, the more unhappy.
Certainly one of the highest duties of the citizen is a scrupulous obedience to the laws of the nation. But it is not the highest duty.
There is nothing the matter with Americans except their ideals. The real American is all right; it is the ideal American who is all wrong.