George Will on The Individual vs. Government

George F. Will, a Pulitzer Prize-winning conservative columnist, author, and political commentator, has long been a prominent voice in American conservative thought. His beliefs on the relationship between the individual and government reflect a commitment to limited government, individual liberty, and the importance of preserving the principles of the American Founding. Let's explore some of George Will's key beliefs on this subject, supported by relevant quotes from his writings and speeches.

1. Limited Government:

George Will is a staunch advocate for limited government, emphasizing that government should be restrained and should not intrude excessively into the lives of individuals. He has expressed his views succinctly:

"The government we have is not the government we need."

Will believes that government should focus on essential functions and avoid unnecessary intervention in the affairs of citizens.

2. Individual Liberty:

Will places a high value on individual liberty, arguing that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices and decisions, free from excessive government interference. He has stated:

"Conservatism is the celebration of the individual."

He sees the protection of individual rights and freedoms as a fundamental principle of conservatism.

3. The Importance of Constitutionalism:

Will is a strong proponent of constitutionalism and the rule of law. He believes that the Constitution provides a framework for limited government and that it should be adhered to strictly:

"The Constitution does not just protect those whose views we share; it also protects those with whose views we disagree."

He emphasizes the need to uphold the Constitution's principles even when they may be inconvenient or unpopular.

4. Skepticism of Government Power:

George Will is deeply skeptical of concentrated government power and believes in the importance of checks and balances to prevent abuses of authority. He has expressed this sentiment:

"The political class now considers itself distinct from and superior to the people it represents. This transmutes government of, by, and for the people into a government of, by, and for the resident class, the class of supposedly knowing and virtuous government officials."

He warns against an unchecked and unaccountable government.

5. Fiscal Responsibility:

Will is fiscally conservative and advocates for responsible government spending and a balanced budget. He views fiscal responsibility as a moral obligation:

"No one should take seriously the idea that the federal government can balance its books by cutting waste, fraud, abuse, and foreign aid."

He believes that addressing fiscal challenges is essential to preserving economic freedom.

George F. Will's beliefs on the relationship between the individual and government align with principles of limited government, individual liberty, constitutionalism, skepticism of government power, and fiscal responsibility. He sees government as a necessary but limited institution that should protect individual rights and adhere to the principles of the Constitution. Will's ideas continue to influence conservative thought in the United States, particularly in discussions about the proper role of government in society.