Our greatest leaders are neither dreamers nor dictators: They are, like Jefferson, those who articulate national aspirations yet master the mechanics of influence and know when to depart from dogma.
Jon MeachamRead
Without education, we are weaker economically. Without economic power, we are weaker in terms of national security. No great military power has ever remained so without great economic power.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Education is essential for economic strength, which in turn is critical for national security.
In this quote, Jon Meacham emphasizes the interconnectedness of education, economic power, and national security. He argues that a lack of education leads to economic weakness, which compromises a nation's ability to ensure its own security, highlighting that no formidable military power has sustained itself without a robust economic foundation.
Themes
EducationEconomic PowerNational SecurityMilitary StrengthInvesting In Knowledge
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on education policy, this quote can highlight the importance of investing in educational programs.
More from Jon Meacham
All quotes →It would be wonderful if the public sector were always great, or always terrible; or if the private sector were always great, or always terrible. Alas, reality is more complicated than comforting caricatures. Governments fail, and corporations fail.
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The perennial conviction that those who work hard and play by the rules will be rewarded with a more comfortable present and a stronger future for their children faces assault from just about every direction. That great enemy of democratic capitalism, economic inequality, is real and growing.
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A wise nation should cultivate a political spirit that allows opponents to cooperate without fearing an automatic execution from their core supporters. Who knew that the real rogues in American politics would be the ones who dare to get along?
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One of the earliest resurrection scenes in the Bible is that of Thomas demanding evidence - he wanted to see, to touch, to prove. Those who question and probe and debate are heirs of the apostles just as much as the most fervent of believers.
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