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About this quote

What does it mean?
The question presents a choice between moving forward or backward using unclear terminology.
In plain terms
Should we move ahead or go back?
What can you take from it?
Clarify direction before choosing a path.

Where it applies

  • policy debates
  • public speeches

Putting it to work

  • Define terms before presenting options
  • Map goals clearly

Questions to consider

  • What direction is forward for you?
  • How do you avoid vague goals?

Another view

The phrasing is confused and unhelpful.

More from Dan Quayle

  1. 'You all look like happy campers to me. Happy campers you are, happy campers you have been, and, as far as I am concerned, happy campers you will always be.'

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  2. 'We should develop anti-satellite weapons because we could not have prevailed without them in 'Red Storm Rising''.

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  3. 'My friends, no matter how rough the road may be, we can and we will never surrender to what is right.'

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