Believe Quote by Calvin Coolidge
“Our government rests upon religion. It is from that source that we derive our reverance for truth and justice, for equality and liberty, and for the rights of mankind. Unless the people believe in these principles they cannot believe in our government.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Inaugural Address, Calvin Coolidge, 1925
Government legitimacy stems from shared moral principles; without public belief in truth, justice, equality, liberty, and rights, the state lacks authority.
In simple terms: Government needs shared moral values to be legitimate.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate belief in core principles.
Themes
politics
ethics
government
citizenship
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- civic education
- constitutional reform
- public discourse
Key Concepts
social contract
legitimacy
public trust
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies reinforce shared values?
- What happens when values diverge?
A Different Perspective
If people reject these principles, government authority weakens.
