H. L. Mencken Quote

The notion that a radical is one who hates his country
is naive and usually idiotic. He is, more likely,
one who likes his country more than the rest of us,
and is thus more disturbed than the rest of us
when he sees it debauched. He is not a bad citizen turning to crime;
he is a good citizen driven to despair.

by:	H. L. Mencken (1880-1956) American Journalist, Editor, Essayist, Linguist, Lexicographer, and Critic
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Categories:	Conscience, Ethics, Honor, Integrity, Justice, Loyalty, Patriotism, Principle, Self-Determination, Vigilance
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-- marge, carmel
-- Holly Lewis, Acworth
And under today's police state laws anyone who seems radical or questions the government can be deemed a terrorist and "disappeared". Ain't Democracy Grand?  -- J Carlton, Calgary      2
(-; I like it :-)  -- Mike, Norwalk
Probably a good citizen who has followed the treachery going on in Washington now.  -- jim k, Austin, Tx      2
Well said !  -- Bobble, No. Ferrisburgh, VT
Insightful observation of some "radicals"...like our founders. For "radicals" whose goals are anarchy and/or tyranny, "good citizen" does not apply to them.  -- empty pockets, No
Alinsky stole the word radical the same way the left robbed those who love liberty of the word liberal.  -- Abby      3
Democracy gives the " Beautification of Mediocrity " sad but true. H.L. Mencken.  -- Ronw13, Yachats OR
Hear, hear! The idea that I am responsible for the condition and quality of my life is considered 'radical' by both the ruling class and their subjects. Most believe in Liberty for themselves, but regulation for others.  -- E Archer, NYC      1
-- Ronw13, Oregon
"Beatification."  NOT "beautification."  Mencken would categorize everybody here trying to adopt his thinking to their own as fools and dopes.  Me, too, no doubt.   -- John, Bucks, PA
Would you please state your case Mr or lady radical?  -- Fredrick William Sillik, Anytown      1

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