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We call ourselves public servants but I'll tell you this…

“We call ourselves public servants but I'll tell you this: we as public servants must set an example for the rest of the nation. It is hypocritical for the public official to admonish and exhort the people to uphold the common good.” quote by Barbara Jordan
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“We call ourselves public servants but I'll tell you this: we as public servants must set an example for the rest of the nation. It is hypocritical for the public official to admonish and exhort the people to uphold the common good.”

Barbara Jordan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Public servants must model the common good; hypocrisy undermines credibility.

In simple terms: Officials must lead by example, not hypocrisy.

Key Takeaway

Uphold integrity in public service.

Themes

ethics leadership public service hypocrisy integrity

Mood

serious inspirational

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • government training
  • ethics courses
  • public accountability

Key Concepts

political theory morality civic duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can officials resist hypocrisy?
  • What actions demonstrate true service?
A Different Perspective

Political pressure may tempt compromise.

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