“The objective I propose is quite simple to state: to foster the infrastructure of democracy – the system of a free press, unions, political parties, universities – which allows a people to choose their own way to develop their own culture, to reconcile their own differences through peaceful means.”
- February 6, 1911 – June 5, 2004
- American
- The 40th President of the United States, Actor, Politician, Governor of California
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Quote
“The objective I propose is quite simple to state: to foster the infrastructure of democracy – the system of a free press, unions, political parties, universities – which allows a people to choose their own way to develop their own culture, to reconcile their own differences through peaceful means.”
Explanation
This quote expresses a vision of democracy that goes beyond elections, emphasizing the institutions and freedoms that sustain a democratic society. Ronald Reagan identifies elements such as a free press, labor unions, political parties, and universities as the foundational infrastructure necessary for people to truly govern themselves. These institutions are not ends in themselves, but means by which a society deliberates, innovates, and resolves internal conflict without violence.
The statement reflects Reagan’s broader Cold War-era commitment to promoting democracy globally, particularly in contrast to authoritarian regimes. By highlighting the organic and self-directed development of culture and conflict resolution, Reagan positions democracy not merely as a political system but as a framework for national self-determination and peaceful coexistence. It reveals his belief that democracy flourishes where ideas are exchanged freely and institutions provide space for dissent and dialogue.
In today’s world, the quote resonates amid global struggles over media freedom, academic independence, and political polarization. It serves as a reminder that democratic resilience depends not just on voting, but on nurturing open institutions that empower people to think, speak, and act autonomously. In nations where these structures are under threat, Reagan’s words underscore the importance of preserving the ecosystem of democracy, rather than reducing it to procedural formalities.
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