Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men and Citizens......And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. --- George Washington's Farewell Address 1796
美國革命之父亞當斯說過:
「最好的憲法,最好的法律,也不能保證給普遍敗壞的人帶來自由和幸福。」
Neither the wisest constitution nor the wisest laws will secure the liberty and happiness of a people whose manners are universally corrupt." --- Essay in the Public Advertiser, 1749, Samuel Adams