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Duty Quote by James A. Garfield

“The chief duty of government is to keep the peace and stand out of the sunshine of the people.” quote by James A. Garfield
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“The chief duty of government is to keep the peace and stand out of the sunshine of the people.”

James A. Garfield

About This Quote

Source Speech: Inaugural Address, James A. Garfield, 1881

Government's primary role is to maintain peace and stay out of citizens' private affairs.

In simple terms: Govt should keep peace, not interfere.

Key Takeaway

Respect citizens' autonomy.

Themes

government peace noninterference citizen rights

Mood

reflective serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • law enforcement
  • public administration

Key Concepts

liberalism civil liberty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits should government have?
  • When is intervention justified?
A Different Perspective

Balancing security with noninterference can be complex.

2.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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