I think we've been through a period where too many people…
““I think we've been through a period where too many people have been given to understand that if they have a problem, it's the government's job to cope with it. 'I have a problem, I'll get a grant.' 'I'm homeless, the government must house me.' They're casting their problem on society. And, you know, there is no such thing as society. There are individual men and women, and there are families. And no government can do anything except through people, and people must look to themselves first. It's our duty to look after ourselves and then, also to look after our neighbour. People have got the entitlements too much in mind, without the obligations. There's no such thing as entitlement, unless someone has first met an obligation.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that individuals should prioritize personal responsibility over reliance on government assistance, emphasizing duties before entitlements.
In simple terms: People should help themselves first, then others, not expect the state to solve all problems.
Key Takeaway
Take personal responsibility before demanding aid.
Themes
responsibility
government
individualism
entitlement
community
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal budgeting
- job search
- community volunteering
- family budgeting
- policy debate
Key Concepts
social contract
political philosophy
welfare state
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities can you fulfill today?
- How do you balance self‑care with helping neighbors?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook systemic barriers that prevent self‑reliance for some.