The object of government in peace and in war is not the glory of rulers or of races, but the happiness of common man.
William BeveridgeRead
Ignorance is an evil weed, which dictators may cultivate among their dupes, but which no democracy can afford among its citizens.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Ignorance can be manipulated by authoritarian leaders, but a healthy democracy requires informed citizens.
In this quote, William Beveridge highlights the destructive nature of ignorance, particularly in the context of government and societal structure. He warns that while dictators can exploit the ignorance of the populace for their own benefit, a true democracy thrives on the knowledge and awareness of its citizens, underscoring the importance of education and critical thinking in maintaining a free society.
Themes
IgnoranceDemocracyEducationCitizenshipDictatorship
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, to emphasize the importance of voter education.
More from William Beveridge
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Freedom granted only when it is known beforehand that its effects will be beneficial is not freedom.
Friedrich August Von HayekRead
My dreams are a stupid refuge, like an umbrella against a thunderbolt.
Fernando PessoaRead
Four things greater than all things are Women and horses and power and War.
Rudyard KiplingRead
Decisions are made by those who show up. Don't ever forget that you're a citizen of this world.
Aaron SorkinRead
The guilty are allowed, by human laws, bloody as they are, to speak in their own defence before they are condemned.
Mary Wollstonecraft ShelleyRead
People who have a sense of peace that their priorities are in the right place also have a sense of humility and a realistic view on life.
Patrick LencioniRead