The object of government is the welfare of the people. The material progress and prosperity of a nation are desirable chiefly so far as they lead to the moral and material welfare of all good citizens.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Government exists to serve people, with progress valued only when it benefits all.
- In plain terms
- The goal of government is helping all citizens.
- What can you take from it?
- Measure progress by how well it helps everyone.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you measure welfare?
- Who benefits from progress?
Another view
Material progress can coexist with unequal distribution.
More from Theodore Roosevelt
Every man holds his property subject to the general right of the community to regulate its use to whatever degree the public welfare may require it.
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