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The time to guard against corruption and tyranny is before…

“The time to guard against corruption and tyranny is before they shall have gotten hold of us. It is better to keep the wolf out of the fold, than to trust to drawing his teeth and talons after he shall have entered.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“The time to guard against corruption and tyranny is before they shall have gotten hold of us. It is better to keep the wolf out of the fold, than to trust to drawing his teeth and talons after he shall have entered.”

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.

Vigilance against abuse of power must precede its occurrence; prevent corruption before it infiltrates.

In simple terms: Prevent corruption early.

Key Takeaway

Act before tyranny rises.

Themes

freedom government integrity

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political advisory

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • organizational governance
  • community vigilance

Key Concepts

political theory preventive ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies detect early signs of corruption?
  • What safeguards can be built before power consolidates?
A Different Perspective

It can be hard to know when threats are imminent.

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