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To take away (voting) is to reduce a man to slavery.

“To take away (voting) is to reduce a man to slavery.” quote by Thomas Paine
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“To take away (voting) is to reduce a man to slavery.”

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.

He equates voting with slavery, emphasizing the loss of freedom when citizens relinquish power.

In simple terms: Voting can be a loss of liberty.

Key Takeaway

Guard democratic participation.

Themes

politics freedom slavery

Mood

skeptical philosophical

Type

political thought‑provoking

When to use this quote

  • Referendums
  • elections
  • civil rights movements

Key Concepts

Social contract citizen rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is voting truly oppressive?
  • What safeguards protect voter autonomy?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may exaggerate democratic processes.

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