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Abraham Lincoln's Purpose Of Government

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Abraham Lincoln believed that the purpose of government centered around aiding the community in a way that can not be done independently. This is to say that government fills the gap between a group of individuals and their necessities. Such an ideal stands true in economics, foreign relations, and civil rights. Lincoln cited many examples of things that people cannot do on their own in the form of speeches to the American public. He said that making and maintaining roads and bridges, providing for the helpless, providing schools, and disposing of the deceased's property are all duty's of the government. According to Abraham Lincoln, "The legitimate object of government is to do for the community of people whatever they need to have done, but can not do at all, or cannot so well do, for themselves in their separate individual capacities." This quote is a famous outline for the American government's objective and size. According to Henry David Thorue, "That government is best which governs least." This quote argues for small government over large government. This argument is countered by the need for healthcare and education, just to of the public needs provided by big government. While not everyone shares Lincoln's views, it Is important to note that his ideal of government reflects today's structure immensely.

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