Function Quote by Ronald Reagan
“Government must not supersede the will of the people or the responsibilities of the people. The function of government is not to confer happiness, but to give men the opportunity to work out happiness for themselves.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Inaugural Address, Ronald Reagan, 1981
Government should enable personal effort, not guarantee happiness; it must respect individual will and responsibility.
In simple terms: Government enables personal effort, not guaranteed happiness.
Empower individuals to pursue their own happiness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- citizen engagement
- public administration
- community projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can policies balance freedom with support?
- What responsibilities do citizens have in this framework?
May overlook structural inequalities that limit true opportunity.