A free citizen in a free state, it seems to me, has an…
“A free citizen in a free state, it seems to me, has an inalienable right to play with whomsoever he will, so long as he does not disturb the general peace. If any other citizen, offended by the spectacle, makes a pother, then that other citizen, and not the man exercising his inalienable right, should be put down by the police.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates personal liberty to choose partners, provided it doesn't disturb public peace, and suggests law enforcement protect that freedom
In simple terms: Freedom to choose companions without harming others
Key Takeaway
Respect others' peace while exercising rights
Themes
freedom
privacy
public order
law enforcement
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- dating
- public gatherings
- law enforcement decisions
Key Concepts
libertarianism
civil rights
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies handle conflicts between personal freedom and public disturbance?
- When is police intervention justified?
A Different Perspective
Balancing individual rights with community comfort can be complex