Forget Quote by Caleb Cushing
“Here, again, as I conceive, gentlemen forget that this government is a republican one, resting exclusively in the intelligence and virtue of the People.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional address, United States, 1850s
The quote stresses that a republic depends wholly on the citizens' wisdom and moral character, not on institutions alone.
In simple terms: A republic works only if people are wise and virtuous.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate civic virtue and informed participation.
Themes
citizenship
democracy
virtue
government
responsibility
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- public debate
- community service
- education reform
Key Concepts
civic virtue
political theory
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we improve public education to support civic virtue?
- What mechanisms ensure accountability of the people?
A Different Perspective
If the populace lacks education, the republic can fail despite good intentions.
