Crushed Quote by Edmund Burke
“People crushed by law, have no hopes but from power. If laws are their enemies, they will be enemies to laws; and those who have much hope and nothing to lose, will always be dangerous.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Reflections on the Revolution in France, 1790
Powerful individuals who feel hopeless under oppressive laws become dangerous opponents, while those with hope and nothing to lose pose a greater threat.
In simple terms: Desperate people resist law; hopeful ones are dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how oppression fuels resistance.
Themes
power
oppression
hope
danger
Mood
defiant
urgent
Type
political
warning
When to use this quote
- activism
- reform movements
- social justice
- authoritarian regimes
Key Concepts
political theory
human behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hope change one's willingness to challenge authority?
- What safeguards can prevent desperate resistance?
A Different Perspective
Resistance can become violent if not addressed.
