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About this quote

What does it mean?
A nation's true worth is measured by the quality of its citizens, not its statistics.
In plain terms
Civilization is judged by the people, not the city size.
What can you take from it?
Focus on developing human character to build a better society.

Where it applies

  • policy making
  • education
  • nation building

Putting it to work

  • prioritize people
  • invest in education
  • value character

Questions to consider

  • What defines a great society?
  • Are you building character or just numbers?

Another view

Statistics can sometimes accurately reflect societal progress.

More from Ralph Waldo Emerson

  1. Hitch your wagon to a star.

    Permalink to quote #253
  2. Every genuine work of art has as much reason for being as the earth and the sun.

    Permalink to quote #255
  3. The most advanced nations are always those who navigate the most.

    Permalink to quote #252

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