Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
Ronald ReaganRead
Public servants say, always with the best of intentions, 'What greater service we could render if only we had a little more money and a little more power.' But the truth is that outside of its legitimate function, government does nothing as well or as economically as the private sector.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that government efficiency is often overrated compared to the private sector's capabilities.
Ronald Reagan's quote critiques the notion that increasing government budgets and authority will lead to better public service. He suggests that while public servants may have good intentions, they often overlook the inherent inefficiencies of government compared to the private sector, which typically operates with more effectiveness and economic prudence.
Themes
GovernmentPrivate SectorPublic ServiceEfficiencyPowerMoney
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about fiscal responsibility, one could use this quote to argue against excessive government spending.
More from Ronald Reagan
All quotes →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.
Ronald ReaganRead
I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
Ronald ReaganRead
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.
Ronald ReaganRead
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."
Ronald ReaganRead
We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
Ronald ReaganRead
Similar quotes
The pastor ought to have two voices: one, for gathering the sheep; and another, for warding off and driving away wolves and thieves. The Scripture supplies him with the means of doing both.
John CalvinRead
When Men are irritated, and the Passions inflamed, they fly hastily and cheerfully to Arms; but after the first emotions are over, to expect, among such People, as compose the bulk of an Army, that they are influenced by any other principles than those of Interest, is to look for what never did, and I fear never will happen
George WashingtonRead
Hold firm to your vision but don't be a tyrant on set.
Werner HerzogRead
There should be more women directing; I think there's just not the awareness that it's really possible.
Kathryn BigelowRead
When you start with Super 8, you are everything. You're the DP, the sound man, the effects guy. And what I started understanding, by working for other people, is that the best type of director is someone who rose through the ranks.
Guillermo Del ToroRead
A leader is not someone who says: Follow me.......A leader is someone who says: I'll go first.
Neale Donald WalschRead