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Government is never more dangerous than when our desire to have it help us blinds us to its great power to harm us.
Ronald Reagan
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote warns against the danger of relying too heavily on government assistance, as it can lead to a loss of awareness about its potential for harm.

Ronald Reagan's quote serves as a cautionary reminder that while government can provide support and assistance, there is a fine line between seeking help and becoming overly dependent on it. When citizens are blinded by their desire for government aid, they may overlook the extensive power that government holds, which can be used for harm rather than good. It highlights the importance of vigilance and awareness regarding the influence and capabilities of government in our lives.

Themes

GovernmentPowerDangerAwarenessAssistance

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of limited government.

More from Ronald Reagan

Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
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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.
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I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
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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.
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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."
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We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
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