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The jaws of power are always open to devour, and her arm…

“The jaws of power are always open to devour, and her arm is always stretched out, if possible, to destroy the freedom of thinking, speaking, and writing.” quote by John Adams
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“The jaws of power are always open to devour, and her arm is always stretched out, if possible, to destroy the freedom of thinking, speaking, and writing.”

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.

Power seeks to suppress free thought and expression; vigilance is needed to protect intellectual liberty.

In simple terms: Power threatens free speech.

Key Takeaway

Guard your freedom of expression.

Themes

freedom power speech thought political control

Mood

defiant urgent

Type

political activist

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • journalism
  • academic debate
  • online platforms

Key Concepts

authoritarianism censorship civil liberties

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize subtle threats to free thought?
  • What safeguards can you support?
A Different Perspective

Even well‑intentioned authority can unintentionally limit discourse.

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