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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.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“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.”

Thomas Jefferson

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.

Key Takeaway

Guard against concentrating power.

Themes

politics power people

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • government reform
  • activism
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

democracy corruption authority

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who truly holds power in your community?
  • How can citizens prevent power abuse?
A Different Perspective

Power can be co-opted by elites.

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