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Arbitrary Quote by Edmund Burke

“Law and arbitrary power are at eternal enmity” quote by Edmund Burke
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“Law and arbitrary power are at eternal enmity”

Edmund Burke

About This Quote

Source Essay: Thoughts on the French Revolution, 1790

Law and arbitrary power clash forever; authority must be restrained.

In simple terms: Law opposes unchecked power.

Key Takeaway

Guard against tyranny.

Themes

politics law freedom

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • corporate governance
  • judicial decisions

Key Concepts

social contract authority limits

Questions to Reflect On

  • When can strong authority be necessary?
  • How to detect when law becomes arbitrary?
A Different Perspective

Power can be justified under certain circumstances.

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