No other depositories of power [but the people themselves]…
“No other depositories of power [but the people themselves] have ever yet been found, which did not end in converting to their own profit the earnings of those committed to their charge.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Power ultimately resides with the people; attempts to concentrate it elsewhere end up serving those in charge.
In simple terms: People hold real power, not institutions.
Guard against concentrating power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government reform
- activism
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Who truly holds power in your community?
- How can citizens prevent power abuse?
Power can be co-opted by elites.