Federal government Quote by Dwight David Eisenhower
““This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience. The total influence -- economic, political, even spiritual -- is felt in every city, every State house, every office of the Federal government. We recognize the imperative need for this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its grave implications. Our toil, resources and livelihood are all involved; so is the very structure of our society. In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the militaryindustrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted. Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Farewell Address, Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1961
The merging of a massive military and arms industry threatens democratic freedoms; citizens must stay vigilant to prevent undue influence over government.
In simple terms: A huge military‑industrial complex can endanger liberty; stay alert.
Monitor and limit military‑industrial power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- voting
- public policy
- media literacy
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you assess military influence locally?
- What actions protect democratic processes?
Complex influence is hard to detect and resist.