Skip to content

Acquire Quote by John Adams

“[A] republic . . . [is] a government, in which the property of the public, or people, and of every one of them was secure and protected by law . . . implies liberty; because property cannot be secured unless the man be at liberty to acquire, use or part with it, at his discretion, and unless he…” quote by John Adams
Download Open image
“[A] republic . . . [is] a government, in which the property of the public, or people, and of every one of them was secure and protected by law . . . implies liberty; because property cannot be secured unless the man be at liberty to acquire, use or part with it, at his discretion, and unless he have his personal liberty of life and limb, motion and rest, for that purpose.”

John Adams

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Thoughts on Government, John Adams, 1776

A government that protects public property and personal freedoms is essential for liberty.

In simple terms: Secure property and personal liberty are linked.

Key Takeaway

Protect property and personal freedoms.

Themes

liberty property rights government security

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public policy
  • legal frameworks
  • civil rights
  • land ownership

Key Concepts

social contract individual rights rule of law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does property security affect personal freedom?
  • What laws best ensure both?
A Different Perspective

If property is not protected, liberty may be compromised.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by John Adams

Explore all 495 John Adams quotes

More Acquire quotes

Browse all 1,003 Acquire quotes