Quote by Joseph Priestley, in a letter to
How glorious, then, is the prospect, the reverse of all the past, which is now opening upon us, and upon the world. Government, we may now expect to see, not only in theory and in books but in actual practice, calculated for the general good, and taking no more upon it than the general good requires, leaving all men the enjoyment of as many of their natural rights as possible, and no more interfering with matters of religion, with men's notions concerning God, and a future state, than with philosophy, or medicine.
Summary
This quote expresses the excitement and optimism surrounding the idea of a new form of government that prioritizes the collective welfare and respects individuals' natural rights. The author envisions a government that goes beyond mere theoretical concepts or writings and is actually put into practice. This government would be designed to serve the general good and not overreach by interfering in matters of religion or personal beliefs, allowing people to exercise as many of their natural rights as possible. The quote emphasizes the potential for a new era where government functions to benefit all, preserving individual freedom and limiting unnecessary interference.
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