Carts Quote by Wendell Phillips
“Government is only a necessary evil, like other go-carts and crutches. Our need of it shows exactly how far we are still children. All governing overmuch kills the self-help and energy of the governed.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Governance Critique, 1850
Government is a necessary but immature crutch; excess control stifles self‑reliance.
In simple terms: Government is a needed but childish crutch.
Key Takeaway
Encourage self‑reliance over over‑governance.
Themes
politics
individualism
authority
dependence
Mood
skeptical
thoughtful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- civic engagement
- policy reform
- community building
Key Concepts
necessary evil
crutch
self‑help
energy
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do citizens have without the state?
- How can we balance needed governance with personal freedom?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance can breed apathy.
![“The Declaration [of Independence] was not a protest against government, but against the excess of government. It prescribed the proper role of government, to secure the rights of individuals and to effect their safety and happiness. In modern society, no individual can do this alone. So government…” quote by Gerald R. Ford](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6ec/gerald-r-ford-2628_can-do_the-declaration-of-independence-was-not_2793163.jpg)
