Circumstances Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“This power ought to be coextensive with all the possible combinations of such circumstances; and ought to be under the direction of the same councils which are appointed to preside over the common defense.”
About This Quote
Political power should be shared broadly and overseen by the same bodies that manage common defense.
In simple terms: Power should match all possible circumstances and be overseen by defense councils.
Key Takeaway
Design governance structures that align authority with responsibility.
Themes
governance
power distribution
defense
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative reform
- public policy
- national security
Key Concepts
political theory
constitutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can oversight mechanisms prevent abuse of power?
- What safeguards ensure defense councils remain accountable?
A Different Perspective
Concentrated power can still arise despite broad mandates.
![“Power is more safely retained by cautious than by severe councils. [Lat., Potentiam cautis quam acribus consiliis tutius haberi.]” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ceb/tacitus-1552_cautious_power-is-more-safely-retained-by-cautiou_1940986.jpg)
![“[W]ar is a question, under our constitution, not of Executive, but of Legislative cognizance. It belongs to Congress to say whether the Nation shall of choice dismiss the olive branch and unfurl the banners of War.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bd8/alexander-hamilton-619_banner_w-ar-is-a-question-under-our-constitutio_33383.jpg)
![“It is one thing to be subordinate to the laws, and another [for the Executive] to be dependent on the legislative body. The first comports with, the last violates, the fundamental principles of good government; and, whatever may be the forms of the Constitution, unites all power in the same hands.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be4/alexander-hamilton-619_body_it-is-one-thing-to-be-subordinate-to-the_129196.jpg)
