The first lesson in civics is that efficient government begins at home.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Independence is essential for personal growth, and one should prepare diligently for their career without relying on others.
Charles Evans Hughes emphasizes the importance of independence and self-reliance for young men as they prepare for their future careers. He suggests that one should progress in life through their own merits and capabilities, avoiding dependence on others to maintain personal integrity and freedom, especially when taking on public responsibilities. This independence allows for personal growth and the ability to seize opportunities without being hampered by outside influences.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a graduation speech to inspire young adults about their future.
More from Charles Evans Hughes
All quotes →Dissents are appeals to the brooding spirit of the law, to the intelligence of another day.
While democracy must have its organizations and controls, its vital breath is individual liberty.
The peril of this Nation is not in any foreign foe! We, the people, are its power, its peril, and its hope.
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.
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.'
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