The animosities of soverigns are temporary, and may be…
“The animosities of soverigns are temporary, and may be allayed; but those which seize the whole body of people, and of a people too, dictate their own measures, produce calamities of long duration”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Powerful leaders can cause lasting harm when they dominate entire societies, unlike temporary conflicts between rulers.
In simple terms: Leaders' dominance can cause long-term suffering.
Beware of concentrated power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government policy
- social movements
- public health crises
- education reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we limit the reach of dominant powers?
- What safeguards protect societies from long-term harm?
Even temporary disputes can have lasting effects if they spread.