Tis a Mistake to think this Fault [tyranny] is proper only…
![“Tis a Mistake to think this Fault [tyranny] is proper only to Monarchies; other Forms of Government are liable to it, as well as that. For where-ever the Power that is put in any hands for the Government of the People, and the Preservation of their Properties, is applied to other ends, and made…” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/061/john-locke-814_arbitrary_tis-a-mistake-to-think-this-fault-tyrann_1921223.jpg)
“Tis a Mistake to think this Fault [tyranny] is proper only to Monarchies; other Forms of Government are liable to it, as well as that. For where-ever the Power that is put in any hands for the Government of the People, and the Preservation of their Properties, is applied to other ends, and made use of to impoverish, harass, or subdue them to the Arbitrary and Irregular Commands of those that have it: There it presently becomes Tyranny, whether those that thus use it are one or many.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Power, when misused, creates tyranny regardless of who holds it, harming people and property.
In simple terms: Misused power leads to oppression.
Key Takeaway
Guard against concentration of power.
Themes
politics
power
tyranny
rights
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative bodies
- corporate leadership
- public policy
- community governance
Key Concepts
social contract
government legitimacy
civil liberty
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure power remains accountable?
- What safeguards protect against collective tyranny?
A Different Perspective
Power can be checked but not eliminated entirely.