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King is a title which translated into several languages…

“King is a title which translated into several languages, signifies a magistrate with as many different degrees of power as there are kingdoms in the world, and he can have no power but what is given him by law; yea, even the supreme or legislative power is bound by the rules of equity, to govern…” quote by John Arbuthnot
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“King is a title which translated into several languages, signifies a magistrate with as many different degrees of power as there are kingdoms in the world, and he can have no power but what is given him by law; yea, even the supreme or legislative power is bound by the rules of equity, to govern by laws enacted, and published in due form; for what is not legal is arbitrary.”

John Arbuthnot

About This Quote

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

Kings derive authority from law; even supreme power is limited by equity and legal rules.

In simple terms: Kings are bound by law; power isn’t absolute.

Key Takeaway

Respect legal limits on authority.

Themes

law authority equity political theory

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • judicial review
  • civic education
  • political debate

Key Concepts

social contract constitutional limits rule of law

Questions to Reflect On

  • What happens when law conflicts with tradition?
  • How can citizens enforce legal limits?
A Different Perspective

Historical context may differ from modern systems.

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