If it be admitted that a man, possessing absolute power…
“If it be admitted that a man, possessing absolute power, may misuse that power by wronging his adversaries, why should a majority not be liable to the same reproach? Men are not apt to change their character by agglomeration; nor does their patience in the presence of obstacles increase with the consciousness of their strength. And for these reasons I can never willingly invest any number of my fellow creatures with that unlimited authority which I should refuse to any one of them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Absolute power corrupts, and majority rule can be equally corrupt if unchecked; concentration of authority invites abuse regardless of who holds it.
In simple terms: Power corrupts, even in groups.
Key Takeaway
Guard against concentrated authority.
Themes
politics
ethics
power
democracy
justice
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
warning
When to use this quote
- government reform
- civil society activism
- institutional checks
- public accountability
Key Concepts
social contract
tyranny of the majority
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies prevent majority tyranny?
- What safeguards protect against concentrated power?
A Different Perspective
Power can be diffused but still abused if institutions are weak.