Our most dangerous tendency is to expect too much of…
“Our most dangerous tendency is to expect too much of government, and at the same time do for it too little. We contemplate the immediate task of putting our public household in order. We need a rigid and yet sane economy, combined with fiscal justice, and it must be attended by individual prudence and thrift, which are so essential to this trying hour and reassuring for the future.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive reliance on government requires matching personal responsibility and fiscal prudence.
In simple terms: Government expectations need personal thrift.
Key Takeaway
Balance public expectations with private prudence.
Themes
government
fiscal responsibility
individualism
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- civic engagement
Key Concepts
economic policy
public expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens contribute to fiscal stability?
- What limits should be placed on government expectations?