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Every man Quote by Andrew Hamilton

“Power may justly be compared to a great river which, while kept within its due bounds is both beautiful and useful; but when it overflows its banks, it is then too impetuous to be stemmed, it bears down on all before it and brings destruction and desolation wherever it comes. If this then is the…” quote by Andrew Hamilton
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““Power may justly be compared to a great river which, while kept within its due bounds is both beautiful and useful; but when it overflows its banks, it is then too impetuous to be stemmed, it bears down on all before it and brings destruction and desolation wherever it comes. If this then is the nature of power, let us at least do our duty and like wise men use our utmost care to support liberty, the only bulwark against lawless power...and I make no doubt but your upright conduct, this day will not only entitle you to the love and esteem of your fellow-citizens, but every man, who prefers freedom to a life of slavery, will bless and honor you, as men who have baffled the attempt of tyranny; and, by an impartial verdict, have laid a notable foundation for securing to ourselves, our posterity, and our neighbors, that to which nature and the laws of our country have given us a right--the liberty--both of exposing and opposing arbitrary power in these parts of the world at least, by speaking and writing the truth." - - Andrew Hamilton””

Andrew Hamilton

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address on Liberty, 1775

Power is like a river: controlled it benefits, uncontrolled it destroys; we must guard liberty against tyrannical excess.

In simple terms: Power can help or harm; protect freedom.

Key Takeaway

Use power responsibly, protect liberty.

Themes

power freedom responsibility

Mood

cautious determined

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • leadership decisions
  • civil activism
  • legal reforms

Key Concepts

political theory ethics governance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can prevent power abuse?
  • How can citizens hold leaders accountable?
A Different Perspective

Power can be misused despite good intentions.

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