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They that are discontented under monarchy, call it…

“They that are discontented under monarchy, call it tyranny; and they that are displeased with aristocracy, call it oligarchy: so also, they which find themselves grieved under a democracy, call it anarchy, which signifies the want of government; and yet I think no man believes, that want of…” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“They that are discontented under monarchy, call it tyranny; and they that are displeased with aristocracy, call it oligarchy: so also, they which find themselves grieved under a democracy, call it anarchy, which signifies the want of government; and yet I think no man believes, that want of government, is any new kind of government.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

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

People label government deficiencies as tyranny, oligarchy, or anarchy, yet these are merely complaints about lack of governance.

In simple terms: People blame government for problems, but they just want order.

Key Takeaway

Seek effective governance rather than labels.

Themes

politics government discontent

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • public debates
  • policy making
  • civic education
  • activism

Key Concepts

social contract political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “want of government” truly mean?
  • How can societies balance order and freedom?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex political realities.

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