"Back in the thirties we were told we must collectivize the nation because the people were so poor. Now we are told we must collectivize the nation because the people are so rich"
- William F. Buckley, Jr.
About this Quote
This quote by William F. Buckley, Jr. is a commentary on the changing nature of government policy in time. In the 1930s, the federal government was promoting for collectivization of the nation in order to assist the poor. This was an action to the Great Depression, which had actually triggered extensive hardship and suffering. Now, however, the government is promoting for collectivization of the country because individuals are so rich. This recommends that the federal government is now more worried with wealth redistribution and making sure that the wealthy do not become too effective. This quote highlights the value of understanding the changing nature of government policy and how it can impact the lives of residents. It likewise functions as a suggestion that the federal government ought to always be looking out for the very best interests of all people, no matter their financial status.