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Resistance to sudden violence, for the preservation not…

“Resistance to sudden violence, for the preservation not only of my person, my limbs, and life, but of my property, is an indisputable right of nature which I have never surrendered to the public by the compact of society, and which perhaps, I could not surrender if I would.” quote by John Adams
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“Resistance to sudden violence, for the preservation not only of my person, my limbs, and life, but of my property, is an indisputable right of nature which I have never surrendered to the public by the compact of society, and which perhaps, I could not surrender if I would.”

John Adams

About This Quote

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

The author asserts a natural right to self‑defense and property, refusing to relinquish it to societal agreements.

In simple terms: Right to defend oneself and possessions.

Key Takeaway

Stand firm on personal rights.

Themes

law rights self‑defense

Mood

serious defiant

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • home security
  • civil unrest
  • personal safety

Key Concepts

political philosophy natural law

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it justified to prioritize personal safety over social contracts?
  • How do we balance individual rights with collective responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Self‑defense can conflict with communal obligations.

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