America Quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt
![“[M]y conception of liberty does not permit an individual citizen or a group of citizens to commit acts of depredation against nature in such a way as to harm their neighbors and especially to harm the future generations of Americans. If many years ago we had had the necessary knowledge, and…” quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/718/franklin-d-roosevelt-488_america_m-y-conception-of-liberty-does-not-permi_157357.jpg)
“[M]y conception of liberty does not permit an individual citizen or a group of citizens to commit acts of depredation against nature in such a way as to harm their neighbors and especially to harm the future generations of Americans. If many years ago we had had the necessary knowledge, and especially the necessary willingness on the part of the Federal Government, we would have saved a sum, a sum of money which has cost the taxpayers of America two billion dollars.”
About This Quote
Argues that liberty should not allow harming nature or future generations, and that earlier federal action could have saved billions.
In simple terms: Liberty must protect nature and future people, not allow harm.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize environmental stewardship and long‑term planning.
Themes
environment
ethics
policy
future generations
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- environmental regulation
- budget planning
- public health initiatives
Key Concepts
sustainability
government responsibility
economic impact
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies best balance freedom and protection?
- How can we motivate collective action?
A Different Perspective
Balancing liberty with regulation can be politically contentious.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
