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We must especially beware of that small group of selfish…

“We must especially beware of that small group of selfish men who would clip the wings of the American Eagle in order to feather their own nests.” quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt
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“We must especially beware of that small group of selfish men who would clip the wings of the American Eagle in order to feather their own nests.”

Franklin D. Roosevelt

About This Quote

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

The warning highlights how a few selfish individuals can undermine collective prosperity for personal gain.

In simple terms: Selfish people can harm the common good.

Key Takeaway

Guard against selfish exploitation.

Themes

politics ethics economics

Mood

cautionary serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • business regulation
  • public discourse
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

social justice power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies limit selfish influence?
  • What safeguards protect the common good?
A Different Perspective

Not all groups are overtly selfish; systemic issues can be subtler.

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