Anarchy Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“Were it not that it might require too long a discussion, it would not be difficult to demonstrate that a large and well-organized republic can scarcely lose its liberty from any other cause than that of anarchy, to which a contempt of the laws is the high-road.”
About This Quote
Source Founding Father Papers: The Federalist Papers, 1787
A strong, organized republic can only lose liberty through anarchy and contempt for law
In simple terms: Liberty depends on law and order
Key Takeaway
Protect laws, avoid anarchy
Themes
government
law
liberty
order
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- national governance
- civil unrest
- legal reform
- public policy
Key Concepts
political theory
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance liberty with law enforcement?
- What safeguards prevent anarchy?
A Different Perspective
If laws become oppressive, they can also threaten liberty
![“[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)
