Folly Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“The inquiry constantly is what will please, not what will benefit the people. In such a government there can be nothing but temporary expedient, fickleness, and folly.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Federalist Papers, No. 23, 1787
A government focused on pleasing the public rather than benefiting them leads to short‑term fixes, inconsistency, and poor decisions.
In simple terms: Pleasing people isn’t the same as doing what’s best for them.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize public good over popularity.
Themes
governance
leadership
ethics
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- policy making
- crisis management
Key Concepts
public policy
short‑termism
fickleness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance public approval with effective policy?
- When is a temporary expedient justified?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term popularity can be necessary in emergencies.
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