The Federal Government is rendered weak to do wrong, and…
“The Federal Government is rendered weak to do wrong, and powerful to do right: for, as soon as it begins to go wrong, it naturally begins to be divided against itself, and the three great wheels of its machinery exhaust their momentum, or wear each other out, in their friction against each other; while, as soon as it begins to go right, all the parts work harmoniously, and exhaust their full strength on the object of their action.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Government effectiveness varies: when corrupt it fragments, when just it unites and maximizes power.
In simple terms: Government works best when just.
Support justice, avoid division.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- civic engagement
- leadership challenges
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions stay united in righteousness?
- What safeguards prevent fragmentation?
Even just governments can become inefficient due to bureaucracy.