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Boston Quote by William F. Buckley, Jr

“I'd rather entrust the government of the United States to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone directory than to the faculty of Harvard University.” quote by William F. Buckley, Jr
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“I'd rather entrust the government of the United States to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone directory than to the faculty of Harvard University.”

William F. Buckley, Jr

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Harvard Faculty vs. Boston Phone Book" in National Review, 1972

Criticizes academic elite by comparing them unfavorably to ordinary citizens

In simple terms: Academics are seen as out of touch

Key Takeaway

Question authority and expertise

Themes

skepticism elitism politics

Mood

cynical provocative

Type

political satirical

When to use this quote

  • Political commentary
  • education policy debates

Key Concepts

Meritocracy institutional trust public opinion

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust experts over laypeople?
  • What are the risks of dismissing expertise?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex expertise; may be hyperbolic

3.8 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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