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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker accuses a former president of widespread dishonesty across all relationships.
In plain terms
Nixon lied to everyone he knew.
What can you take from it?
Honesty is vital for leadership.

Where it applies

  • political leadership
  • public accountability
  • personal relationships

Putting it to work

  • demanding transparency
  • holding leaders accountable
  • valuing truth

Questions to consider

  • How does dishonesty affect governance?
  • What is the cost of lying to the public?

Another view

Accusations require evidence to be valid public claims.

More from Barry Goldwater

  1. It's political Daddyism and it's as old as demagogues and despotism.

    Permalink to quote #28
  2. Politics is the art of achieving the maximum amount of freedom for individuals that is consistent with the maintenance of social order.

    Permalink to quote #30
  3. It's a great country, where anybody can grow up to be president... except me.

    Permalink to quote #27

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