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Books Quote by David Halberstam

“Day after day we read about them, each new man more brilliant than the last. They were not just an all-star first team, but an all-star second team as well. There were counts kept on how many Rhodes scholars there were in the Administration, how many books by members of the new Administration…” quote by David Halberstam
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““Day after day we read about them, each new man more brilliant than the last. They were not just an all-star first team, but an all-star second team as well. There were counts kept on how many Rhodes scholars there were in the Administration, how many books by members of the new Administration (even the Postmaster, J. Edward Day, had written a novel, albeit a bad one).””

David Halberstam

About This Quote

Source Book: The Best and the Brightest, 1972

The administration is portrayed as exceptionally talented, with many members achieving high academic honors and publishing works.

In simple terms: The team is highly accomplished.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and value collective expertise.

Themes

achievement education leadership

Mood

analytical critical

Type

historical observational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • team building
  • public perception

Key Concepts

elite talent intellectual capital

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does talent translate to results?
  • What risks arise from over‑reliance on prestige?
A Different Perspective

High credentials don’t guarantee effective governance.

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