My conception of America is a land where men and women may walk in ordered freedom in the independent conduct of their occupations; where they may enjoy the advantages of wealth, not concentrated in the hands of the few but spread through the lives of all; where they build and safeguard their homes, and give to their children the fullest advantages and opportunities of American life; where every man shall be respected in the faith that his conscience and his heart direct him to follow; where a contented and happy people, secure in their liberties, free from poverty and fear, shall have the leisure and impulse to seek a fuller life. Some may ask where all this may lead beyond mere material progress. It leads to a release of the energies of men and women from the dull drudgery of life to a wider vision and a higher hope. It leads to the opportunity for greater and greater service, not alone from man in our own land, but from our country to the whole world. It leads to an America, healthy in body, healthy in spirit, unfettered, youthful, eager - with a vision searching beyond the farthest horizons, with an open mind, sympathetic and generous.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- America should offer ordered freedom, shared wealth, safe homes, and respect for conscience, leading to higher hope and service.
- In plain terms
- A good society shares wealth freely and respects personal freedom.
- What can you take from it?
- Liberty and shared opportunity lead to higher purpose.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does ordered freedom look like?
- How do we spread wealth broadly?
Another view
This vision may not address structural barriers to equality.
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