“If a nation expects to be ignorant and free in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be. An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.”
Yes, I know I'm featuring a lot of quotes recently and that some of our forefathers are making an appearance. I need to remind myself more every day because I don't know what happened to us but I know we're better than this.
“London, February 1, 1812. Have spent 14 shillings and 6 pence magnificently; i.e., like an ass. ”
In 1776 John Adams was receiving letters from those frustrated with a perceived lack of progress towards independence and self rule. In response to one such letter Adams warned of the exceedingly dangerous task ahead. With regards to the notion of a ‘free government’ Adams wrote:
“… But I fear that in every assembly, members will obtain an influence by noise not sense. By meanness, not greatness. By ignorance, not learning. By contracted hearts, not large souls.”
2016 looms.
“It’s impossible to make a man understand something when his salary depends on him not understanding it. ”
