On Government
George Washington, first elected president of the United States of America:
“Government is not reason; it is not eloquence; it is force. Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master.”
Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States of America and author of the Declaration of Independence:
“That government is best which governs the least, because its people discipline themselves.”
(Related reading: An Open Letter to High School Students)
Hi Josh -
Just FYI, that Washington quote is probably apocryphal, according to a book on quotes I have. I’ve asked several academics about it, too, and they have no source for the quote other than attributions. The sentiment seems to reflect his views (as does Jefferson’s reflect his), but it’s doubtful he ever said those exact words.