Agree Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“In these sentiments, sir, I agree to this Constitution, with all its faults, if they are such; because I think a General Government necessary for us, and there is no form of government, but what may be a blessing to the people if well administered; and believe further, that this is likely to be well administered for a course of years, and can only end in despotism, as other forms have done before it, when the people shall become so corrupted as to need despotic government, being incapable of any other.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Constitutional Debate, 1787, Philadelphia, USA
A well‑run general government can be a blessing, but if it becomes corrupt it may lead to despotism.
In simple terms: Good government can become tyrannical if corrupted.
Key Takeaway
Guard against corruption.
Themes
government
power
corruption
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- civic engagement
- education
Key Concepts
political theory
history
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent tyranny?
- How can citizens stay vigilant?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused despite good intentions.
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![“[the framers of the Constitution] intended our government should be a republic, which differs more widely from a democracy than a democracy from a despotism.” quote by Fisher Ames](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8f1/fisher-ames-19639_constitution_the-framers-of-the-constitution-intended_2570843.jpg)
![“I will not agree to have this bill [to repeal DADT ] go forward, because our economy is in the tank.” quote by John McCain](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c2c/john-mccain-465_agree_i-will-not-agree-to-have-this-bill-to-re_7321.jpg)
