Common good Quote by John Adams
““Government is instituted for the common good; for the protection, safety, prosperity and happiness of the people; and not for the profit, honor, or private interest of any one man, family, or class of men.””
About This Quote
Government’s purpose is to serve the collective welfare, not to advance private interests of individuals or groups.
In simple terms: Government exists for the common good, not personal profit.
Key Takeaway
Public institutions should prioritize collective well‑being.
Themes
political philosophy
public good
ethics
citizenship
Mood
principled
optimistic
Type
political statement
principle
When to use this quote
- voting decisions
- policy analysis
- civic education
- community organizing
Key Concepts
social contract
public interest theory
Practical Applications
- evaluate legislation against common‑good criteria
- design transparency mechanisms
Questions to Reflect On
- When does private interest become a public good?
- How can citizens hold leaders accountable to this principle?
![“I will insist the Hebrews have [contributed] more to civilize men than any other nation. If I was an atheist and believed in blind eternal fate, I should still believe that fate had ordained the Jews to be the most essential instrument for civilizing the nations. They are the most glorious nation…” quote by John Adams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e34/john-adams-529_affair_i-will-insist-the-hebrews-have-contribut_104004.jpg)
