Break Quote by Allan Bloom
“Once the law is broken with impunity, each man regains the right to any means he deems proper or necessary in order to defend himself against the new tyrant, the one who can break the law.”
About This Quote
Source Book: 'The Closing of the American Mind' by Allan Bloom, 1987
When law is ignored, people feel justified to use any means to protect themselves from tyranny.
In simple terms: Lawlessness breeds self‑defense.
Key Takeaway
Uphold law to prevent chaos.
Themes
justice
authority
civil rights
Mood
critical
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- community organizing
- legal reform
- personal safety
Key Concepts
political theory
ethical dilemmas
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to break the law?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of power?
A Different Perspective
Violence can undermine moral authority.
![“Who can break the law? If I break this glass, it will fall down. If anyone succeeds in throwing one atom out of place, every other atom will go out of balance. . . . The law can never be broken. Each atom is kept in its place. Each is weighed and measured and fulfils its [purpose] and place…” quote by Swami Vivekananda](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/996/swami-vivekananda-53_atoms_who-can-break-the-law-if-i-break-this-gl_3191860.jpg)
