We have to recognize that the freedom of the individual has to be protected not only from the power of the state, but even more so from economic and societal power. - Gustav Heinemann

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War is not the quintessential emergency in which man has to prove himself, as my generation learned at its school desks in the days of the Kaiser; rather, peace is the emergency in which we all have to prove ourselves. - Gustav Heinemann

Trust cannot be commanded; and yet it is also correct that the only one who earns trust is the one who is prepared to grant trust. - Gustav Heinemann

Therefore it does not help to sneer at the imperfection of today's reality or to preach absolutes as a daily agenda. - Gustav Heinemann

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The time has come - and must come - for multilateral conversations about a secure peace in all of Europe. - Gustav Heinemann

The secret of big and revolutionary actions also consists in discovering the tiny step that is simultaneously a strategic step, insofar as it entails additional steps in the direction of a better reality. - Gustav Heinemann

The first thing I see is the obligation to serve peace. - Gustav Heinemann

Some fatherlands are difficult. Germany is one of them. But it is our fatherland. Here is where we live and work. - Gustav Heinemann

One of our most noble political tasks is to open up trust. - Gustav Heinemann

Not less, but more democracy - that is the demand, that is the great goal that we have to prescribe for ourselves, and especially for our youth. - Gustav Heinemann

Liberal democracy must finally become the vital element of our society. - Gustav Heinemann

Ladies and gentlemen, on the occasion of my election I received many letters from people representing all segments of the population and all professions, especially from the younger generation, linking my inauguration with great - far too great - expectations. - Gustav Heinemann

Ladies and gentlemen, I take office at a time in which the world is living in extreme contradictions. - Gustav Heinemann

Insecurity and resignation mingle with the hope for a better order. - Gustav Heinemann

I appeal to the responsibility of the blocs and the major powers, not to seek security in the arms race, but rather in a meeting for joint disarmament and arms limitations. - Gustav Heinemann