128 Quotes by Barry Goldwater

Throughout history, government has proved to be the chief instrument for thwarting man's liberty.

Having spent 37 years of my life in the military as a reservist, and never having met a gay in all of that time, and never having even talked about it in all those years, I just thought, why the hell shouldn't they serve? They're American citizens. As long as they're not doing things that are harmful to anyone else... So I came out for it.

Small men, seeking great wealth or power, have too often and too long turned even the highest levels of public service into mere personal opportunity.

If the Conservative is less anxious than his Liberal brethren to increase Social Security ‘benefits,’ it is because he is more anxious than his Liberal brethren that people be free throughout their lives to spend their earnings when and as they see fit

I say further that for this great legislative body to ignore the Constitution and the fundamental concepts of our governmental system is to act in a manner which could ultimately destroy the freedom of all American citizens, including the freedoms of the very persons whose feelings and whose liberties are the major subject of this legislation.

Some programs have been theatrical masterpieces, but all we're seeing is the negative side of nuclear war.

I think the President ought to bring everybody that's in American uniform back because we're headed for war.

We have enough trouble with women without giving them M16 rifles.

I do not undertake to promote welfare, for I propose to extend freedom. My aim is not to pass laws but to repeal them.