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About this quote

What does it mean?
The best government is one that makes itself unnecessary.
In plain terms
Best government lets people govern themselves.
What can you take from it?
Govern to serve not control.

Where it applies

  • governance
  • public service
  • reform

Putting it to work

  • streamline bureaucracy
  • delegate authority
  • focus on enablement

Questions to consider

  • What does a minimal state look like?
  • How can government serve without controlling?

Another view

Some argue strong central control is needed for stability.

More from Wilhelm von Humboldt

  1. True enjoyment comes from activity of the mind and exercise of the body; the two are ever united.

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  2. Governmental regulations all carry coercion to some degree, and even where they don't, they habituate man to expect teaching, guidance and help outside himself…

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  3. How a person masters his fate is more important than what his fate is.

    Permalink to quote #4

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