How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
But we must never forget that no government schemes are going to perfect man. We know that living in this world means dealing with what philosophers would call the phenomenology of evil or, as theologians would put it, the doctrine of sin. (97-99)
Reagan truly, wholeheartedly believes in the power of a good government, one that operates in the best interest of all people. However, he isn't naïve—there is evil in this world, and nothing will ever truly make it go away. That's not to say the American spirit doesn't have the power to really make a difference, but people need to operate with the understanding that nothing will ever truly make all the bad stuff go away.
Quote #2
Especially in the last century, America has kept alight the torch of freedom, not just for ourselves but for millions of others around the world. (110)
Now this one could totally be a wee bit controversial, depending on your point of view. In his speech, Reagan was very clear in saying the U.S. and the Soviet Union had, shall we say, different understandings of freedom, and that's largely why the two countries had a bit of an unhealthy relationship. The Soviet Union didn't want Americans help in preserving freedom, and they weren't alone. There were some countries during that time, as well as throughout U.S. history, that weren't exactly grateful for U.S. interference, even in the name of freedom, and this idea definitely contributed to the tensions during the Cold War.
Quote #3
During my first press conference as President, in answer to a direct question, I pointed out that, as good Marxist-Leninists, the Soviet leaders have openly and publicly declared that the only morality they recognize is that which will further their cause, which is world revolution. (112)
The Soviet Union was interested in becoming a superpower, in having great control of the world and passing on their practices and ideologies. In order to do that, they only subscribed to morals and beliefs that suited them, and according to Reagan, morality isn't like that. It isn't possible to only tune in once in a while and pick and choose the things that serve you. And that is why the Soviets hadn't been successful, and why they never would be.