Quotes Library

April 25, 2025

Government…is simply not the channel through which men’s noblest impulses are to be realized. Its task, on the contrary, is largely to see to it that the ignoble ones are kept under restraint and not permitted to go too far.

George Kennan (1904–2005), American diplomat, historian. Around the Cragged Hill (1993), Jay p.203

Did you come to elective office to do good, or to do well? Have you sacrificed the former in the interest of the latter? Do you think Kennan read The Federalist as a student?

If you want to pursue a noble human impulse, join the NGO of your choice. *non-government organization.


More Quotes

September 27, 2025
When the lay public rallies round to an idea that is denounced by distinguished but elderly scientists
December 23, 2025
Few revolutionists would be such if they were heirs to a baronetcy.
March 3, 2025
‘Do you pray for the senators, Dr. Hale?’ ‘No, I look at the senators and I pray for the country’
Page 36 of 122