The essential humanity of men can be protected and preserved only where government must answer - not just to the wealthy, not just to those of a particular religion, or a particular race, but to all its people. And even government by the consent of the governed, as in our own Constitution, must be limited in its power to act against its people; so that there may be no interference with the right to worship, or with the security of the home; no arbitrary imposition of pains or penalties by officials high or low; no restrictions on the freedom of men to seek education or work or opportunity of any kind, so that each man may become all he is capable of becoming. These are the sacred rights of Western society.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Human rights are protected when government answers to all people, not specific groups, and limits its power to interfere.
- In plain terms
- The government should serve everyone and not control basic rights.
- What can you take from it?
- Government power must be limited to protect human rights.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we limit government power?
- Which rights are sacred?
Another view
It lists ideals that many democracies struggle to fully achieve.
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