Wherever, therefore, any number of men so unite into one…
![“Wherever, therefore, any number of men so unite into one society, as to quit everyone his executive power of the law of Nature, and to resign it to the public, there, and there only, is a political or civil society. […] Hence it is evident that absolute monarchy, which by some men [e.g., Hobbes]…” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/c35/john-locke-814_absolute-monarchy_wherever-therefore-any-number-of-men-so_2296731.png)
““Wherever, therefore, any number of men so unite into one society, as to quit everyone his executive power of the law of Nature, and to resign it to the public, there, and there only, is a political or civil society. […] Hence it is evident that absolute monarchy, which by some men [e.g., Hobbes] is counted the only government in the world, is indeed inconsistent with civil society, and so can be no form of civil government at all.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Locke argues that a civil society is formed when individuals collectively relinquish natural authority to a public body, making absolute monarchy incompatible with such a society.
In simple terms: People give up personal power to a government, so a king with total power doesn’t fit.
Key Takeaway
Reject absolute rule; support shared governance.
Themes
political theory
government
social contract
authority
monarchy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- forming a new nation
- drafting a constitution
- community decision making
- public policy debates
Key Concepts
natural rights
consent of the governed
civil society
Questions to Reflect On
- How can modern societies prevent concentration of power?
- What mechanisms ensure public authority remains accountable?
A Different Perspective
Absolute power may still emerge through unchecked institutions.