American president Quote by Milton Friedman
“And what does reward virtue? You think the communist commissar rewards virtue? You think a Hitler rewards virtue? You think, excuse me, if you'll pardon me, American presidents reward virtue? Do they choose their appointees on the basis of the virtue of the people appointed or on the basis of their political clout?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: "The Virtue of Reward", 1970
Political leaders often reward power over virtue, questioning the integrity of meritocratic appointments.
In simple terms: Power can outweigh virtue in politics.
Key Takeaway
Demand accountability in leadership.
Themes
politics
virtue
corruption
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy decisions
Key Concepts
ethics
meritocracy
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens promote virtue in governance?
- What mechanisms ensure merit over influence?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may clash with realpolitik.
