One half of the world's people live on less than two dollars a day. This should concern our national security policy as well as our conscience.
Lee H. HamiltonRead
Our democracy is not a product but a continual process. It is preserved not by monuments but deeds. Sometimes it needs refining; sometimes it needs amending; sometimes it needs defending. Always, it needs improving.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy requires ongoing effort and improvement rather than passive acceptance.
This quote emphasizes that democracy is an active and dynamic process that involves continuous work to enhance and protect it. It suggests that citizens must contribute to the democratic process through actions and advocacy, rather than simply relying on existing structures or symbols. Effective democracy requires constant refinement, defense, and proactive improvement by its participants.
Themes
DemocracyProcessDeedsImprovementAction
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civic engagement, one might use this quote to inspire action.
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No man who ever held the office of president would congratulate a friend on obtaining it.
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