Robert Bourassa Quotes

Powerful Robert Bourassa for Daily Growth

About Robert Bourassa

Robert Bourassa (September 3, 1934 – October 7, 2018) was a renowned Canadian politician, author, and philosopher. Born in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, he served as the 25th Premier of Quebec from 1976 to 1985, playing a significant role in shaping the province's political landscape during his tenure. Bourassa's early life was marked by academic excellence. He studied at the Collège de l'Assomption and then moved on to Loyola College and McGill University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Civil Law degree in 1958. His legal career began in Trois-Rivières before transitioning into politics. Bourassa was deeply influenced by the Catholic social doctrine and the teachings of Jacques Maritain. These influences shaped his political ideology, leading him to advocate for the protection of Quebec's French identity and culture, as well as promoting social justice and human rights. As Premier, Bourassa oversaw significant reforms in education, health care, and social services. He was instrumental in negotiating the Meech Lake Accord, a constitutional amendment aimed at recognizing Quebec as a distinct society within Canada. Although the accord ultimately failed to gain widespread acceptance, it remains an important chapter in Canadian political history. Post-premiership, Bourassa continued his writing career, publishing numerous books on philosophy, politics, and theology. His works reflect his deep philosophical thinking and commitment to social justice. Notable titles include "La crise du libéralisme" (1985), "Le libéralisme est-il une religion?" (1990), and "L'Église catholique: à l'épreuve de l'histoire" (2003). Robert Bourassa's legacy lies in his significant contributions to Quebec politics, his advocacy for social justice, and his thought-provoking literary works. His influence continues to resonate in Canadian political discourse and academic circles.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The art of leadership is saying no, not yes. It is very easy to say yes."

This quote emphasizes the importance of decisive and strategic decision-making in leadership roles. By saying "no" to certain ideas or demands, a leader can focus resources and attention on more important matters, thus demonstrating effective prioritization and avoiding potential distractions or overcommitment. The quote suggests that while it may be easier to please others by saying "yes," true leadership lies in making tough choices that ultimately benefit the organization or team as a whole.


"A real leader is one who can help us rise above our individual weaknesses."

This quote by Robert Bourassa suggests that a true leader empowers individuals to transcend their personal limitations, fostering growth and development beyond what they might achieve alone. A leader does not simply exploit or control, but encourages and inspires others to reach their full potential, creating a collective strength greater than the sum of its parts.


"In politics, you have to be a realist, but don't forget that an idealist built this country."

This quote by Robert Bourassa highlights the importance of both pragmatism (realism) and vision (idealism) in political leadership. While practicality is necessary to navigate the complexities of governance, it should not overshadow the founding principles (ideals) that built a nation. It suggests that effective leaders must strike a balance between these two mindsets: making achievable progress while remaining true to their values and the collective aspirations of the people they serve.


"Patience is not the absence of action, it is the ripening of the fruit."

This quote by Robert Bourassa emphasizes that patience does not equate to inactivity; rather, it involves allowing things to unfold naturally and at their own pace, much like a fruit growing on a tree. In other words, patience requires us to trust the process, persist with our efforts, and wait for the right moment or outcome. This perspective encourages us to remain steadfast and resilient as we work towards our goals, knowing that the results will come in time if nurtured properly.


"The test of leadership is not to put greatness into human hearts, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there."

Robert Bourassa's quote suggests that a leader does not need to instill greatness in people, as it inherently exists within them. Instead, a leader should create an environment or circumstances that bring out this latent potential. The role of a leader is to recognize, encourage, and support the greatness that already resides in each individual, fostering growth, development, and ultimately achieving collective success.


It seemed to be inadmissible to give in on such a fundamental point. This would have meant that any one who would have wanted to be a terrorist could gain eventually their freedom thanks to another kidnapping.

- Robert Bourassa

Give, Meant, Seemed, Kidnapping

You only need a few people to effect a kidnapping.

- Robert Bourassa

Need, Effect, Few People, Kidnapping

A diplomat had been kidnapped, a cabinet minister had been kidnapped, they were under threats of murder. The police forces were rather tired. After a whole week, we were unable to find those that had effected the kidnappings.

- Robert Bourassa

Week, Been, Minister, Diplomat

There was never in my mind a desire to give in on the subject of freeing the political prisoners.

- Robert Bourassa

Mind, Never, Give, Prisoners

There is nothing more foreign to a civilised and democratic system than preventive detention.

- Robert Bourassa

Nothing, More, System, Detention

There was no censorship of the press: in general, the War Measures Act could have been made even more radical.

- Robert Bourassa

Been, General, Measures, Censorship

One can always debate questions back and forth.

- Robert Bourassa

Questions, Debate, Always, Forth

It is very difficult to know what may be in the back of the mind of public figures.

- Robert Bourassa

Mind, May, Very, Figures

I have always said that we did not expect a revolution in the streets.

- Robert Bourassa

Always, Expect, Streets, Revolution

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