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As property, honestly obtained, is best secured by an…

“As property, honestly obtained, is best secured by an equality of rights, so ill-gotten property depends for protection on a monopoly of rights. He who has robbed another of his property, will next endeavor to disarm him of his rights, to secure that property; for when the robber becomes the…” quote by Thomas Paine
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“As property, honestly obtained, is best secured by an equality of rights, so ill-gotten property depends for protection on a monopoly of rights. He who has robbed another of his property, will next endeavor to disarm him of his rights, to secure that property; for when the robber becomes the legislator he believes himself secure.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

Illegitimate property relies on monopolized rights for protection.

In simple terms: Unfair property needs power to stay safe.

Key Takeaway

Challenge unjust power structures.

Themes

property rights justice

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • land reform
  • civil rights
  • government policy

Key Concepts

legal theory political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who benefits from unequal rights?
  • How can rights be truly equal?
A Different Perspective

Power can corrupt lawmaking.

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