Just when we most need to be clearheaded, in order to face the hard facts before us, there is all too frequently a very real inclination to give way to dangerous tendencies merely as an escape from realities.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
It is what we prevent, rather than what we do that counts most in Government.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Effective governance focuses more on preventing issues than reacting to them.
William Lyon Mackenzie King's quote highlights the importance of proactive governance, suggesting that the true measure of successful leadership lies in the ability to foresee and prevent potential problems before they arise, rather than merely addressing them after they occur. This perspective emphasizes the value of foresight and responsibility in political leadership and effective government.
Themes
GovernancePreventionLeadershipProactiveIssues
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a political speech to emphasize the importance of preventive policies.
More from William Lyon Mackenzie King
All quotes βThe politician's promises of yesterday are the taxes of today.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
Far more has been accomplished for the welfare and progress of mankind by preventing bad actions than by doing good ones.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
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