That a man be willing, when others are so too, as far…
“That a man be willing, when others are so too, as far forth as for peace and defense of himself he shall think it necessary, to lay down this right to all things; and be contented with so much liberty against other men, as he would allow other men against himself.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates that individuals should willingly surrender some freedoms for collective peace and mutual defense.
In simple terms: Give up some liberty for safety.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize communal security.
Themes
social contract
peace
liberty
defense
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- forming governments
- negotiating treaties
- community safety planning
- civil rights debates
Key Concepts
political philosophy
mutual responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What freedoms are essential to retain?
- How can societies ensure fair balance between liberty and security?
A Different Perspective
Risk of authoritarian overreach.