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.
John AdamsRead
Laws for the liberal education of youth, especially of the lower class of people, are so extremely wise and useful, that, to a humane and generous mind, no expense for this purpose would be thought extravagant.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Investing in the education of youth, especially the underprivileged, is a wise and valuable endeavor.
John Adams emphasizes the importance of providing a liberal education to youth, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. He argues that such education is not just beneficial but essential for cultivating a humane and generous society. Adams suggests that the costs associated with this education should be viewed as an investment in both individual lives and the community, rather than as an expense, highlighting the transformative power of education in uplifting society as a whole.
Themes
EducationYouthInvestmentSocietyWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating for increased funding for education, one might cite this quote to illustrate the value of investing in youth.
More from John Adams
All quotes →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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