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There is nothing perhaps more adverse to nature and reason…

“There is nothing perhaps more adverse to nature and reason than to hold in obedience remote countries and foreign nations, in opposition to their inclination and interest.” quote by Edward Gibbon
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“There is nothing perhaps more adverse to nature and reason than to hold in obedience remote countries and foreign nations, in opposition to their inclination and interest.”

Edward Gibbon

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Imposing foreign rule on distant lands contradicts natural order and rational self‑interest.

In simple terms: Forcing control on remote peoples defies nature and reason.

Key Takeaway

Respect local autonomy.

Themes

politics colonialism ethics

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • international aid
  • cultural preservation

Key Concepts

sovereignty self‑determination natural law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can external powers align with local inclinations?
  • What criteria define “natural” governance?
A Different Perspective

Assumes all remote societies share the same interests.

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