“In matters of national security emotion is no substitute for intelligence, nor rigidity for prudence. To act coolly, intelligently and prudently in perilous circumstances is the test of a man — and also a nation.”

Radio address (11 April 1955); as quoted in The World's Great Speeches (1999) edited by Lewis Copeland, Lawrence W. Lamm, and Stephen J. McKenna

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mid-20th-century Governor of Illinois and Ambassador to the… 1900–1965

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en.wikiquote.org - Bertrand Russell / Quotes / 1950s / Unpopular Essays (1950)

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