Skip to content

The impulses of my heart are the voice of Nature, which is…

“The impulses of my heart are the voice of Nature, which is never mistaken. The institutions that stand in my way are man-made and are only arbitrary conventions to which I have never given my consent. In trampling these institutions underfoot, I shall have the double pleasure of satisfying my…” quote by Frederic Bastiat
Download Open image
“The impulses of my heart are the voice of Nature, which is never mistaken. The institutions that stand in my way are man-made and are only arbitrary conventions to which I have never given my consent. In trampling these institutions underfoot, I shall have the double pleasure of satisfying my inclinations and of believing myself a hero”

Frederic Bastiat

About This Quote

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

Natural impulses are true; man-made institutions are arbitrary and can be challenged for personal freedom.

In simple terms: Nature guides us; human rules are optional.

Key Takeaway

Question and resist unnecessary constraints.

Themes

freedom individualism authority nature

Mood

defiant inspirational

Type

philosophical provocative

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • social activism
  • personal decisions
  • creative expression

Key Concepts

Political philosophy anarchism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which institutions truly limit you?
  • When is it wise to obey?
A Different Perspective

Some institutions provide essential stability.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Frederic Bastiat

Explore all 182 Frederic Bastiat quotes

More Arbitrary quotes

Browse all 529 Arbitrary quotes