The first lesson in civics is that efficient government begins at home.
Charles Evans HughesRead
While democracy must have its organizations and controls, its vital breath is individual liberty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy relies on individual freedom while needing structure and authority.
This quote emphasizes that while democratic systems require certain organizational structures and regulations to function, the essence of democracy is rooted in the freedoms and rights of individuals. Individual liberty is essential in ensuring that democracy remains vibrant and true to its purpose, reflecting the voices and choices of the people it serves.
Themes
DemocracyIndividual LibertyFreedomOrganizationControl
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a debate about voting rights.
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
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
Our institutions were not devised to bring about uniformity of opinion; if they had we might well abandon hope. It is important to remember, as has well been said, 'the essential characteristic of true liberty is that under its shelter many different types of life and character and opinion and belief can develop unmolested and unobstructed.'
Charles Evans HughesRead
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