Unattributed on government

Beer is living proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.

Golf is a good walk spoiled.

If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were always yours. And if they don’t, they never were.

The best government is that which governs least.

John L. O'Sullivan1813–1895Often credited to Thomas Paine

A tyrant must put on the appearance of uncommon devotion to religion. Subjects are less apprehensive of illegal treatment from a ruler whom they consider god-fearing and pious. On the other hand, they do less easily move against him, believing that he has the gods on his side.

Aristotle384–322 BCPolitics, Book V,1314b.39

It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all the others that have been tried.

Winston Churchill1874–1965Speech in the House of Commons (11 November 1947), published in 206–07 The Official Report, House of Commons (5th Series), 11 November 1947, vol. 444, cc.

• Democracy