The single most exciting thing you encounter in government is competence, because it's so rare.

The single most exciting thing you encounter in government is competence, because it's so rare.

The worst government is the most moral. One composed of cynics is often very tolerant and humane. But when fanatics read more

The worst government is the most moral. One composed of cynics is often very tolerant and humane. But when fanatics are on top there is no limit to oppression.

If men were angels, no government would be necessary.

If men were angels, no government would be necessary.

Here is my first principle of foreign policy: good government at home.

Here is my first principle of foreign policy: good government at home.

The art of governing consists in not letting men grow old in their jobs.

The art of governing consists in not letting men grow old in their jobs.

Government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. read more

Government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action.

A goverment that is big enough to give you all you want is big enough to take it all away.

A goverment that is big enough to give you all you want is big enough to take it all away.

Support a compatriot against a native, however the former may
blunder or plunder.

Support a compatriot against a native, however the former may
blunder or plunder.

Our government... teaches the whole people by its example. If the government becomes the lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for law; read more

Our government... teaches the whole people by its example. If the government becomes the lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for law; it invites every man to become a law unto himself; it invites anarchy.