The Third Principle: Virtue and Morality Essential for Government
The book The 5000 Year Leap by W. Cleon Skousen outlines several foundational principles that the authors believe underpinned the success and longevity of the United States. The third principle emphasizes the necessity of virtue and morality for a stable government, rooted in the belief that a republic cannot survive without the moral integrity of its citizens. Here we delve into this principle with quotes from some of the most influential figures in American and classical history:
Samuel Adams
Samuel Adams, known as the “Father of the American Revolution,” believed deeply in the moral foundation of governance. He eloquently stated:
“The public cannot be too curious concerning the characters of public men.”
This quote underscores Adams’ belief that the moral character of those in public office directly impacts the health of the republic. He advocated for a vigilant public, one that holds its leaders accountable to high moral standards.
John Adams
John Adams, the second President of the United States, was even more explicit about the role of morality in government:
“Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
Adams here points to the necessity of a populace with an inherent sense of morality to sustain the freedoms and responsibilities outlined in the U.S. Constitution. His statement reflects the belief that without a moral compass, the structures of liberty could falter.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, a principal author of the Declaration of Independence, shared this view on the linkage between morality and governance:
“The practice of morality being necessary for the well-being of society, He [God] has taken care to impress its precepts so indelibly on our hearts that they shall not be effaced by the subtleties of our brain.”
Jefferson’s words suggest that moral principles are innate and essential for societal well-being, thereby implying that government should not only respect these principles but also encourage their practice.
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin, known for his wit and wisdom, also commented on the importance of virtue:
“Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become more corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.”
Franklin’s statement is a stark warning that freedom is contingent upon the virtue of the people. He implies that the loss of moral integrity could lead to the need for authoritarian governance to maintain order, highlighting the preventative role of personal virtue in preserving liberty.
Cicero
Turning to classical philosophy, Cicero, the Roman statesman and philosopher, provides a historical perspective that aligns with the American founders’ views:
“The safety of the state is not in the numbers of its citizens, but in their virtue.”
Cicero’s insight from ancient Rome resonates with the principle discussed by Skousen, emphasizing that the moral quality of individuals within a society is more critical to its survival than sheer demographic strength.
Conclusion
The third principle from The 5000 Year Leap emphasizes that for a government to function effectively in a republic, its citizens must uphold high standards of morality and virtue. This theme is echoed through the ages by figures like Samuel Adams, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Cicero. Their collective wisdom suggests that the moral fiber of a society is not just a nice-to-have but a must-have for the maintenance of freedom and effective governance. In essence, they argue that without a virtuous populace, the structures of democracy could easily devolve into tyranny or chaos. This enduring principle serves as a reminder and a call to action for individuals to cultivate personal integrity, as it is integral to the health of the nation.
References:
- Skousen, W. Cleon. “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed The World.” National Center for Constitutional Studies, 1981.