America Quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt
“We must especially beware of that small group of selfish men who would clip the wings of the American Eagle in order to feather their own nests.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1938, Roosevelt on economic fairness
The warning highlights how a few selfish individuals can undermine collective prosperity for personal gain.
In simple terms: Selfish people can harm the common good.
Guard against selfish exploitation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business regulation
- public discourse
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies limit selfish influence?
- What safeguards protect the common good?
Not all groups are overtly selfish; systemic issues can be subtler.