Aspiration Quote by J. William Fulbright
“It is in a way a mystery that, instead of demanding that their governments give primary attention to their own needs and aspirations, most of the citizens of big counties-those, that is, that have the status of being "powers" in the world-far from being self-centered or materialistic as they are commonly credited with being, the ordinary citizen and his elected representative all too often turn out to be romantics, ready and eager to sacrifice programs of health, education and welfare for the power and pride of the nation…”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on American Foreign Policy, 1970
Citizens and leaders often prioritize national prestige over basic social services, sacrificing health, education, and welfare for power.
In simple terms: People favor national pride over essential public services.
Key Takeaway
Balance national ambition with social welfare.
Themes
politics
nationalism
social welfare
citizen responsibility
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- policy debates
- community meetings
- legislative sessions
Key Concepts
public policy
collective sacrifice
political psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure essential services aren't sacrificed for prestige?
- What mechanisms protect welfare during nationalist surges?
A Different Perspective
National pride can be manipulated, leading to neglect of essential services.
![“To give [the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba] even covert support is on a par with the hypocrisy and cynicism for which the United States is constantly denouncing the Soviet Union in the United Nations and elsewhere. This point will not be lost on the rest of the world, nor on our own consciences.” quote by J. William Fulbright](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/48f/j-william-fulbright-7682_bay-of-pigs_to-give-the-bay-of-pigs-invasion-of-cuba_203573.jpg)
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