Advantage Quote by Hans-Hermann Hoppe
“If an agency is the ultimate judge in every case of conflict, then it is also judge in all conflicts involving itself. Consequently, instead of merely preventing and resolving conflict, a monopolist of ultimate decision making will also cause and provoke conflict in order to settle it to his own advantage. That is, if one can only appeal to the state for justice, justice will be perverted in the favor of the state, constitutions and supreme courts notwithstanding.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Democracy: The Godless State, 2001
When a single agency holds ultimate decision power, it will manipulate conflicts to its advantage, undermining justice.
In simple terms: Concentrated power creates biased conflict resolution.
Key Takeaway
Limit authority to prevent abuse.
Themes
law
justice
power
conflict
Mood
skeptical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- government regulation
- international arbitration
Key Concepts
monopolistic authority
state legitimacy
conflict of interest
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides what is just?
- How can checks balance this power?
A Different Perspective
Power can be self‑serving.
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