Access Quote by Albert J. Nock
“The State, on the other hand, both in its genesis and by its primary intention, is purely anti-social. It is not based on the idea of natural rights, but on the idea that the individual has no rights except those that the State may provisionally grant him. It has always made justice costly and difficult of access, and has invariably held itself above justice and common morality whenever it could advantage itself by so doing.”
About This Quote
The State is fundamentally anti‑social, granting rights conditionally and placing itself above justice and morality when advantageous.
In simple terms: State as a rights‑restricting entity
Key Takeaway
State power overrides individual rights
Themes
Political theory
Libertarianism
Justice
Authority
Morality
Mood
Skepticism
Critical
Type
Treatise
Political commentary
When to use this quote
- Philosophical debate
- Policy critique
- Legal analysis
Key Concepts
Social contract
Power dynamics
Practical Applications
- Political essays
- Advocacy writing
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the State inherently anti‑social, or can it serve public good?
- What mechanisms can check state overreach?
