The principle of equality, which makes men independent of…
““The principle of equality, which makes men independent of each other, gives them a habit and a taste for following, in their private actions, no other guide but their own will. This complete independence, which they constantly enjoy towards their equals and in the intercourse of private life, tends to make them look upon all authority with a jealous eye, and speedily suggests to them the notion and the love of political freedom. Men living at such times have a natural bias to free institutions. Take any one of them at a venture, and search if you can his most deep-seated instincts; and you will find that, of all governments, he will soonest conceive and most highly value that government whose head he has himself elected, and whose administration he may control.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People who value personal independence tend to favor self‑governance and distrust external authority, leading them to cherish democratic institutions where they elect and control leaders.
In simple terms: Independence fuels desire for self‑rule and suspicion of outside power.
Key Takeaway
Prefer systems you can influence directly.
Themes
freedom
self‑governance
democracy
authority
independence
Mood
reflective
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
observational
When to use this quote
- voting
- community organizing
- civil activism
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
political philosophy
social contract
individualism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal independence shape political preferences?
- When might external authority be beneficial?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the need for expertise and collective decision‑making.