“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
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Quote
“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt underscores the critical relationship between education and the functioning of democracy. He argues that for democracy to thrive, its citizens must be able to make informed and wise decisions when they vote or participate in civic life. If voters do not have the knowledge or understanding necessary to make thoughtful choices, the democratic system can be undermined by poor decision-making or manipulation. Roosevelt saw education not just as a means for individual advancement, but as a foundation for the health and strength of the democratic process itself.
Roosevelt’s words also highlight the idea that informed citizenship is essential to the preservation of democracy. Educated citizens are better equipped to evaluate candidates, understand political issues, and engage in constructive debate. During Roosevelt’s presidency, he worked to expand access to education, seeing it as a means to empower citizens and create a more just and equitable society. His belief in the importance of education as a safeguard for democracy reflects his broader goals of promoting social welfare and economic fairness, knowing that an informed public is more likely to advocate for policies that benefit the collective good.
In today’s context, this quote remains highly relevant, particularly in a time of information overload, polarization, and misinformation. The health of modern democracies still relies on an educated electorate that can navigate complex issues and make decisions based on facts, critical thinking, and shared values. Whether through public education, media literacy, or civic engagement, Roosevelt’s words remind us that a thriving democracy requires active participation from its citizens, underpinned by a robust foundation of knowledge and understanding.
