Nations are not truly great solely because the individuals composing them are numerous, free, and active; but they are great when these numbers, this freedom, and this activity are employed in the service of an ideal higher than that of an ordinary man, taken by himself.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A nation's greatness comes from using its people's freedom and activity toward a higher ideal, not just having many people.
- In plain terms
- Nations are great when people serve a higher ideal.
- What can you take from it?
- Great nations focus on shared higher ideals.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What ideal should your nation serve?
- How do you define national greatness?
Another view
Defining a higher ideal can be subjective.
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