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Congress Quote by Sherman Edwards

“I have come to the conclusion that one useless man is a disgrace, that two become a lawfirm, and that three or more become a congress. -John Adams” quote by Sherman Edwards
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““I have come to the conclusion that one useless man is a disgrace, that two become a lawfirm, and that three or more become a congress. -John Adams””

Sherman Edwards

About This Quote

Source Speech: Letter to Thomas Jefferson, 1790

A useless individual is a shame; two become a law firm; three or more become a congress, implying that larger groups tend toward corruption.

In simple terms: Useless people are a disgrace; groups become corrupt.

Key Takeaway

Beware of groupthink and power concentration.

Themes

politics corruption group dynamics ethics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • government
  • corporate boards
  • community groups

Key Concepts

power structures collective responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure integrity in teams?
  • What safeguards prevent power abuse?
A Different Perspective

Larger groups can dilute accountability.

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