Consent Quote by Cory Doctorow
“Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Right to Privacy", Cory Doctorow, 2015
People should have the power to change or replace harmful governments to protect safety and happiness.
In simple terms: Governments must serve people, or be changed.
Key Takeaway
Demand accountability and act when authority fails.
Themes
politics
rights
citizenship
Mood
concerned
hopeful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy reform
- community organizing
- voting
Key Concepts
social contract
legitimacy
revolution
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure peaceful transitions?
- When is it justified to overhaul a system?
A Different Perspective
Changing governments can be chaotic and risky.
