Habits Quote by Benjamin Ricketson Tucker
““It has ever been the tendency of power to add to itself, to enlarge its sphere, to encroach beyond the limits set for it; and where the habit of resisting such encroachment is not fostered, and the individual is not taught to be jealous of his rights, individuality gradually disappears and the government or State becomes the all-in-all.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The 48 Laws of Power, Robert Greene, 1998
Power tends to expand and erode individual rights when resistance isn’t cultivated, leading to a dominant state.
In simple terms: Power grows and can suppress personal freedom.
Key Takeaway
Guard your rights and encourage resistance.
Themes
power
individuality
government
rights
Mood
cautious
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- civic education
- legal advocacy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
political theory
social dynamics
authoritarianism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you protect your personal freedoms?
- What signs show power overreaching?
A Different Perspective
Resistance can be suppressed by fear or apathy.
![“[G]overnment can, instead of extending freedom, restrict freedom. And note ... that the 'can' quickly becomes 'will' the moment the holders of government power are left to their own devices. This is because of the corrupting influence of power, the natural tendency of men who possess some power to…” quote by Barry Goldwater](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/289/barry-goldwater-3353_acquisition_g-overnment-can-instead-of-extending-fre_3176762.jpg)
