Assumption Quote by Albert J. Nock
“It is unfortunately none too well understood that, just as the State has no money of its own, so it has no power of its own. All the power it has is what society gives it, plus what it confiscates from time to time on one pretext or another, there is no other source from which State power can be drawn. Therefore every assumption of State power, whether by gift or seizure leaves society with so much less power; there is never, nor can be, any strengthening of State power without a corresponding and roughly equivalent depletion of social power.”
About This Quote
State power originates from society’s consent and resources; increasing state authority inevitably reduces individual or communal power.
In simple terms: State power comes from people; more state means less personal power.
Key Takeaway
Guard personal autonomy.
Themes
politics
power
society
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- activism
- community building
Key Concepts
social contract
authority
decentralization
Questions to Reflect On
- How much power should the state have?
- What can individuals do to retain power?
A Different Perspective
Balancing state functions and personal freedom is complex.
![“All the power [the State] has is what society gives it, plus what it confiscates from time to time on one pretext or another; there is no other source from which State power can be drawn. Therefore every assumption of State power, whether by gift or seizure, leaves society with so much less power.” quote by Albert Jay Nock](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a77/albert-jay-nock-45459_power_all-the-power-the-state-has-is-what-soci_2572716.jpg)
