Tyranny has perhaps oftener grown out of the assumptions…
“Tyranny has perhaps oftener grown out of the assumptions of power, called for, on pressing exigencies, by a defective constitution, than out of the full exercise of the largest constitutional authorities.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Power can become tyrannical when constitutional flaws are exploited, not merely when authority is fully exercised.
In simple terms: Flawed constitutions can create tyranny.
Key Takeaway
Guard constitutional safeguards.
Themes
politics
government
law
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- judicial review
- constitutional reform
- public policy
Key Concepts
constitutional theory
checks and balances
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we detect hidden constitutional weaknesses?
- What mechanisms best prevent abuse of power?
A Different Perspective
Even strong institutions can be subverted by loopholes.