American people Quote by Calvin Coolidge
““...After all, the chief business of the American people is business. They are profoundly concerned with producing, buying, selling, investing and prospering in the world. I am strongly of the opinion that the great majority of people will always find these are the moving impulses of our life. But it is only those who do not understand our people, who believe that our national life is entirely absorbed by material motives. We make no concealment of the fact that we want wealth, but there are many other things that we want much more. We want peace and honor, and that charity which is so strong an element of all civilization. The chief ideal of the American people is idealism.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the American Business Community, 1925
The quote emphasizes that while material pursuits dominate American life, deeper values like peace, honor, and charity are also essential, reflecting a blend of pragmatism and idealism.
In simple terms: Americans chase wealth but also cherish higher ideals.
Key Takeaway
Balance material goals with moral aspirations.
Themes
materialism
idealism
national identity
values
economics
Mood
reflective
optimistic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- business meetings
- policy debates
- educational curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Americanism
capitalism
civic virtue
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we ensure economic growth supports ethical values?
- What policies can nurture both prosperity and virtue?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on wealth can eclipse moral considerations.
