America Quote by Robert Kennedy
“The Gross National Product measures neither our wit nor our courage, neither our wisdom nor our learning, neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country. It measures everything, in short, except that which makes life worthwhile, and it can tell us everything about America - except whether we are proud to be Americans.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Robert F. Kennedy, “The American Dream” address, 1968
The quote critiques GDP as an inadequate gauge of a nation's true values, emphasizing that it ignores moral and cultural qualities that give life meaning.
In simple terms: GDP misses moral and cultural values that matter.
Key Takeaway
Look beyond economic metrics to assess societal health.
Themes
values
economics
culture
national identity
ethics
Mood
critical
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
social commentary
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- education reform
- community building
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
human development
well‑being
civic pride
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we measure a nation's moral health?
- What indicators reflect citizens' sense of purpose?
A Different Perspective
GDP cannot capture intangible qualities like pride, compassion, or purpose.