It is for the good of nations, and not for the emolument…
“It is for the good of nations, and not for the emolument or aggrandizement of particular individuals, that government ought to be established, and that mankind are at the expense of supporting it. The defects of every government and constitution both as to principle and form, must, on a parity of reasoning, be as open to discussion as the defects of a law, and it is a duty which every man owes to society to point them out.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Government exists to serve the public, not individual gain; its flaws should be openly debated.
In simple terms: Governments must serve people, not personal interests.
Key Takeaway
Critically examine and discuss governmental flaws.
Themes
politics
citizenship
accountability
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
activist
When to use this quote
- voting
- community forums
- policy review
Key Concepts
Social contract
public discourse
ethical governance
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do citizens have to critique governance?
- How can open discussion improve institutions?
A Different Perspective
Debates can be suppressed by power structures.