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It may be laid as an universal rule that a government…

“It may be laid as an universal rule that a government which attempts more than it ought will perform less.” quote by Thomas B. Macaulay
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“It may be laid as an universal rule that a government which attempts more than it ought will perform less.”

Thomas B. Macaulay

About This Quote

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

Governments that overreach become less effective.

In simple terms: Overreaching governments perform poorly.

Key Takeaway

Limit governmental scope.

Themes

government efficiency overreach

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • public sector reform
  • budget planning
  • citizen advocacy

Key Concepts

bureaucracy policy limits public administration

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is extra government action justified?
  • How to measure governmental effectiveness?
A Different Perspective

Complex issues may require more than minimal intervention.

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