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Government does not solve problems; it subsidizes them.
Ronald Reagan
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that government intervention often provides temporary relief rather than addressing the root causes of issues.

Ronald Reagan's quote implies that government involvement in societal problems tends to offer financial support or subsidies instead of implementing effective long-term solutions. This perspective critiques the effectiveness of governmental roles in solving complex issues, suggesting that such actions may inadvertently perpetuate the very problems they seek to alleviate.

Themes

GovernmentProblemsSubsidiesSolutionsPolicy

In practice

Example use cases

In a political debate focused on healthcare, this quote could be used to argue against government healthcare programs.

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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