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The happiness of society is the end of government.
John Adams
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The main goal of government should be to ensure the happiness of its citizens.

John Adams asserts that the ultimate purpose of government is to foster the well-being and happiness of society. This reflects the idea that governments should prioritize the needs and happiness of the people they serve, positioning societal welfare as a fundamental objective of governance.

Themes

HappinessGovernmentSocietyWell-BeingWelfare

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about civic responsibility, one might say, 'As John Adams said, the happiness of society is the end of government, highlighting our duty to contribute to the greater good.'

More from John Adams

Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
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Property monopolized or in the possession of a few is a curse to mankind.
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Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
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There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
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Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
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The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
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