“There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.”
- May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963
- American
- Politician
- As the 35th President of the United States, he overcame the Cuban Missile Crisis and averted nuclear war, and promoted the Apollo program, laying the foundation for American space exploration.
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Quote
“There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.”
Explanation
In this statement, John F. Kennedy emphasizes the necessity of taking bold action, even when faced with uncertainty or risk. He acknowledges that every choice carries its own dangers—whether in political, economic, or social arenas. However, Kennedy asserts that the true danger lies not in the risks of acting, but in the risks of doing nothing. Inaction, though seemingly safe or comfortable in the short term, can lead to far greater long-term consequences, such as missed opportunities, stagnation, or worsening crises.
Kennedy’s words can be understood in the context of his leadership during a pivotal moment in history, particularly during the Cold War, when inaction could have disastrous consequences for global stability. His presidency was marked by several moments where decisive action was needed—such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the decision to support the Civil Rights Movement, or the call for space exploration. In each of these cases, Kennedy recognized that doing nothing, or waiting too long to act, would have led to the worsening of global tensions, the erosion of American values, or the missed potential for progress.
The relevance of this quote extends beyond its historical context. Today, it speaks to the importance of proactive decision-making in addressing the complex challenges we face, from climate change to global health crises and economic inequality. The quote encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to resist the temptation of comfortable inaction—the status quo can often feel safe, but it does not lead to growth or solutions. The true risk is in refusing to take action and allowing problems to fester and grow over time. Kennedy’s words remind us that courageous action, even if imperfect or risky, is often the only path to meaningful progress and lasting change.
