Arbitrary Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“I am a mortal enemy to arbitrary government and unlimited power. I am naturally very jealous for the rights and liberties of my country, and the least encroachment of those invaluable privileges is apt to make my blood boil.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, 1791
He opposes any arbitrary authority and values personal liberty, feeling intense anger at any threat to rights.
In simple terms: He hates arbitrary power and defends freedom.
Guard your freedoms vigilantly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government policy
- activism
- personal rights
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should be placed on government power?
- How can we balance security and liberty?
His language is hyperbolic, possibly alienating moderate readers.