Areas Quote by Barry Goldwater
“...this bill will require the creation of a Federal police force of mammoth proportions. It also bids fair to result in the development of an 'informer' psychology in great areas of our national life-neighbors spying on neighbors, workers spying on workers, business spying on businessmen-were those who would harass their fellow citizens for selfish and narrow purposes will have ample inducement to do so. These, the Federal police force an 'informer' psychology, are the hallmarks of the police state and landmarks in the destruction of a free society.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1964 Republican National Convention, 1964
The quote warns that a massive federal police force will foster a culture of informants, eroding privacy and freedom, leading to a police state.
In simple terms: A huge police force creates a spying culture that threatens liberty.
Key Takeaway
Beware of expanding surveillance powers.
Themes
freedom
surveillance
government power
civil liberties
trust
Mood
cautious
critical
concerned
Type
political
warning
philosophical
When to use this quote
- national policy debates
- law enforcement reforms
- community relations
- privacy advocacy
Key Concepts
authoritarianism
social control
psychology of informants
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance security with personal freedom?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of surveillance?
A Different Perspective
Such a force may be justified as security, but it risks overreach and loss of trust.
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