Whensoever, therefore, the legislative shall transgress…
“Whensoever, therefore, the legislative shall transgress this fundamental rule of society, and either by ambition, fear, folly, or corruption, endeavour to grasp themselves, or put into the hands of any other, an absolute power over the lives, liberties, and estates of the people, by this breach of trust they forfeit the power the people had put into the hands... and it devolves to the people, who have a right to resume their original liberty, and... provide for their own safety and security.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Argues that when legislators overstep, power returns to the people who must protect their liberty.
In simple terms: If rulers abuse power, people regain it to protect themselves.
Key Takeaway
Guard against tyranny and uphold liberty.
Themes
politics
freedom
government
Mood
serious
defiant
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- voting
- civil protest
- community organization
Key Concepts
social contract
legitimacy
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent power abuse?
- How can citizens responsibly reclaim authority?
A Different Perspective
Power vacuums can lead to chaos.