Freedom Quote by Ezra Taft Benson
““A category of government activity which, today, not only requires the closest scrutiny, but which also poses a grave danger to our continued freedom, is the activity NOT within the proper sphere of government. No one has the authority to grant such powers, as welfare programs, schemes for re-distributing the wealth, and activities which coerce people into acting in accordance with a prescribed code of social planning. There is one simple test. Do I as an individual have a right to use force upon my neighbor to accomplish this goal? If I do have such a right, then I may delegate that power to my government to exercise on my behalf. If I do not have that right as an individual, then I cannot delegate it to government, and I cannot ask my government to perform the act for me…In reply to the argument that a little bit of socialism is good so long as it doesn't go too far, it is tempting to say that, in like fashion, just a little bit of theft or a little bit of cancer is all right, too! History proves that the growth of the welfare state is difficult to check before it comes to its full flower of dictatorship. But let us hope that this time around, the trend can be reversed. If not then we will see the inevitability of complete socialism, probably within our lifetime.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Conservative Conference, 1975
Government should not overreach into areas that individuals cannot rightfully delegate, as it threatens freedom.
In simple terms: Government overreach endangers liberty.
Limit government power to protect freedom.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- citizen activism
- legislative reform
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What powers should remain solely private?
- How can societies protect rights while providing aid?
Balancing welfare and liberty is complex.