There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.

We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and they must be won and used for the progress of all people. For space science, like nuclear science and technology, has no conscience of its own. Whether it will become a force for good or ill depends on man, and only if the United States occupies a position of preeminence can we help decide whether this new ocean will be a sea of peace or a new terrifying theater of war.

The very word 'secrecy' is repugnant in a free and open society. ... There is little value in ensuring the survival of our nation if our traditions do not survive with it.

Our responsibility is one of decision, for to govern is to choose.

A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people.

There's an old saying. Never send a boy to do a man's job, send a lady.

No sane society chooses to commit national suicide.