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All of us can agree that we want government to work as well as possible, and we should all applaud efforts to improve it. But there is no escaping the divisive and essential questions: What is the purpose of the state, and whom does it serve?
Chrystia Freeland
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamental purpose of government and the need for improvement in its functioning.

Chrystia Freeland's quote highlights a common desire for effective governance while simultaneously stressing the importance of addressing core questions about the role of the state and its obligations to its citizens. It suggests that despite agreement on the need for a well-functioning government, discussions about its fundamental purpose are necessary to ensure that it serves the people adequately.

Themes

GovernmentPurposeServiceImprovementSociety

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a debate about government reform.

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