The first lesson in civics is that efficient government begins at home.
Charles Evans HughesRead
While democracy must have its organization and controls, its vital breath is individual liberty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy relies on organization and rules, but individual freedom is its core essence.
This quote emphasizes the importance of individual liberty within a democratic system. While structure and regulations are necessary for democracy to function effectively, the true spirit and life of democracy are rooted in the freedom and rights of each individual, highlighting that without personal liberties, democracy loses its meaning and purpose.
Themes
DemocracyLibertyIndividualityFreedomRights
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civic responsibility, one might say, 'While democracy must have its organization and controls, its vital breath is individual liberty.'
More from Charles Evans Hughes
All quotes βDissents are appeals to the brooding spirit of the law, to the intelligence of another day.
Charles Evans HughesRead
While democracy must have its organizations and controls, its vital breath is individual liberty.
Charles Evans HughesRead
The peril of this Nation is not in any foreign foe! We, the people, are its power, its peril, and its hope.
Charles Evans HughesRead
Every young man should aim at independence and should prepare himself for a vocation; above all, he should so manage his life that the steps of his progress are taken without improper aids; that he calls no one master, that he does not win or deserve the reputation of being a tool of others, and that if called to public service he may assume its duties with the satisfaction of knowing that he is free to rise to the height of his opportunity.
Charles Evans HughesRead
It is the essence of the institutions of liberty that it be recognized that guilt is personal and cannot be attributed to the holding of opinions or to mere intent in the absence of overt acts.
Charles Evans HughesRead
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