Government Quote by Richard Henry Lee
“It is certainly true that a popular government cannot flourish without virtue in the people.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Virginia Ratifying Convention, 1788
A government that enjoys popular support must be built on the moral character of its citizens.
In simple terms: Popular government needs virtuous people.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate civic virtue.
Themes
government
citizenship
ethics
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- elections
- public policy
- community building
Key Concepts
Republicanism
civic virtue
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster virtue?
- What role do institutions play?
A Different Perspective
Virtue alone may not guarantee stability without institutions.
![“Militias, when properly formed, are in fact the people themselves and include all men capable of bearing arms. [...] To preserve liberty it is essential that the whole body of the people always possess arms and be taught alike, especially when young, how to use them.” quote by Richard Henry Lee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4cf/richard-henry-lee-32108_2-amendment_militias-when-properly-formed-are-in-fac_1843730.jpg)
![“Trial by jury in civil causes,... trial by jury in criminal causes, [and] the benefits of the writ of habeas corpus... all stand on the same footing; they are the common rights of Americans.” quote by Richard Henry Lee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/439/richard-henry-lee-32108_benefits_trial-by-jury-in-civil-causes-trial-by-j_1892984.jpg)
