"It is a very serious thing to live in a democracy; for history tells us that all other forms of government have been unsuccessful."
This quote underscores the importance and responsibility that comes with living in a democratic society. Democracy, unlike other forms of governance, empowers its citizens to participate in decision-making processes and uphold freedom and equality. However, it also requires active participation, informed choices, and a commitment to upholding the values of democracy to ensure its success. The quote serves as a reminder that the survival and prosperity of democracy depend on the vigilance and engagement of its citizens.
"Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."
Dan Webster's quote suggests that once liberty - the quality or state of being free - starts taking hold, it tends to grow at an exceptionally fast pace. This implies that freedom, once embraced, has the potential to flourish rapidly in a society or individual, leading to significant and rapid progress and growth. It highlights the powerful and transformative nature of liberty.
"Democracy and social progress are the absolute good of the world: therefore, let us have done with all opting out and doubting."
This quote by Dan Webster emphasizes a strong commitment to democracy and social progress as the highest ideals for global development. He suggests that given their inherent goodness, there should be no hesitation or questioning in supporting these values, nor should individuals or groups opt out of contributing to their advancement. In essence, it's a call to action for unity and unwavering dedication to democracy and societal improvement.
"The American system of government has been so successful because it conforms to nature. It is based on the simple proposition that a people should rule themselves."
This quote suggests that the success of America's form of government lies in its alignment with natural principles, specifically self-rule for a people. Essentially, Dan Webster is stating that a democratic system, where citizens have the power to govern themselves, reflects the inherent nature of human societies and therefore thrives due to this conformity. The notion is that people naturally desire autonomy, and allowing them to participate in their own governance fosters stability, prosperity, and satisfaction among the populace.
"A free press can, I believe, be trusted to bury the dead."
This quote by Dan Webster suggests that a free press is responsible and reliable enough to report on events honestly, even if they are negative or involve powerful individuals. The phrase "bury the dead" implies reporting on deaths or significant events in a respectful and objective manner. In other words, a free press is a vital institution that informs the public about important matters truthfully without fear or favoritism.
Principle says it's not who put forth an idea. It's not the position of the person who put forth an idea; it's not the longevity of the person or the party of the person. That's not what it is at all. In a power system, that's the way it works. But in a principle system, it's what it says.
- Dan Webster
You lay out a plan and - say a three-year plan or a two-year plan - and say, 'This is what we can do. We can do the transportation packages, like the highway bill and the water bill, and we can do some of these other areas - a farm bill - whatever it is, we lay out a schedule, and we put that committee to work to do that.'
- Dan Webster
Once we relieve them from sanctions, their economy opens up, and they can sell oil and pistachios and whatever else they sell around the world. That was why Iran needed a deal. Everyone knows they fund terrorism around the world. Having that extra money will add a lot of problems and create a lot more hot spots.
- Dan Webster
We passed a bill in 1997, signed by Democratic Gov. Lawton Chiles, which created a pilot program for a novel experiment called Florida Virtual School. The notion of children using a computer for a classroom and reporting to virtual teachers wasn't exactly mainstream thinking in those days.
- Dan Webster
Let's take up the most important issues first. Let's take up the reauthorizations first; let's take up the appropriations bill first, not wait until four days beforehand - no one has mentioned anything, and, all of a sudden, somebody looks at their watch and says, 'Hey, in four days, the government is going to run out of money.'
- Dan Webster
If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.