The worth of a State, in the long run, is the worth of the…
““The worth of a State, in the long run, is the worth of the individuals composing it; and a State which postpones the interests of their mental expansion and elevation to a little more of administrative skill, or of that semblance of it which practice gives in the details of business; a State which dwarfs its men. In order that they may be more docile instruments in its hands even for beneficial purposes--will find that with small men no great thing can really be accomplished; and that the perfection of machinery to which it has sacrificed everything will in the end avail it nothing, for want of the vital power which, in order that the machine might work more smoothly, it has preferred to banish.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Warns that a state focused on efficiency over individual growth creates docile citizens, limiting true progress.
In simple terms: State efficiency can suppress personal development.
Key Takeaway
Balance societal order with personal growth.
Themes
politics
individualism
progress
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- education policy
- workplace culture
- government reform
Key Concepts
liberty
state power
human potential
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies nurture both order and individual flourishing?
- What safeguards prevent state overreach?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate practical needs of governance.