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Example Quote by Timothy McVeigh

“I wish to use the words of Justice Brandeis dissenting in Olmstead to speak for me. He wrote, 'Our government is the potent, the omnipresent teacher. For good or ill, it teaches the whole people by its example.'” quote by Timothy McVeigh
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“I wish to use the words of Justice Brandeis dissenting in Olmstead to speak for me. He wrote, 'Our government is the potent, the omnipresent teacher. For good or ill, it teaches the whole people by its example.'”

Timothy McVeigh

About This Quote

Source Court Opinion: Olmstead v. United States, 1928

The government serves as a pervasive teacher, influencing society positively or negatively through its actions and examples.

In simple terms: Government teaches by example.

Key Takeaway

Consider the power of governmental example.

Themes

government education influence example policy

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • public policy
  • education reform
  • media messaging

Key Concepts

Civic duty legal precedent public trust

Questions to Reflect On

  • What example does your government set today?
  • How can citizens hold leaders accountable?
A Different Perspective

Government actions can be misinterpreted or ignored.

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