French revolution Quote by Donald W. Livingston
““But further, Hobbesian individualism required that traditional independent social authorities be eliminated or suppressed. Benjamin Constant, who was a keen observer of the French Revolution, explained why: "The interests and memories which spring from local customs contain a germ of resistance which is so distasteful to authority that it hastens to uproot it. Authority finds private individuals easier game: its enormous weight can flatten them out effortlessly as if they were so much sand.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Commentary on Hobbesian individualism, 19th century political analysis
Traditional authorities suppress local customs, which resist centralized power and empower individuals.
In simple terms: Local customs resist authority; authority can flatten individuals.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power of community traditions against overreaching authority.
Themes
political theory
authority
individualism
social resistance
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political theory:1
authority:1
individualism:1
social resistance:1
Hobbesian Individualism:1
Individualism Required:0
Distasteful Authority:0
Suppressed Benjamin:0
When to use this quote
- political debates
- historical analysis
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Hobbesian individualism
social control
resistance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do local customs strengthen or weaken political structures?
- When is central authority necessary?
A Different Perspective
Authority may also protect vulnerable groups; suppression can lead to chaos.
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