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Exercise Quote by John Locke

“As usurpation is the exercise of power which another has a right to, so tyranny is the exercise of power beyond right, which nobody can have a right to.” quote by John Locke
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“As usurpation is the exercise of power which another has a right to, so tyranny is the exercise of power beyond right, which nobody can have a right to.”

John Locke

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Two Treatises of Government, John Locke, 1689

Tyranny occurs when power exceeds rightful limits; it lacks legitimate authority.

In simple terms: Tyranny is power beyond rights.

Key Takeaway

Guard against power overreach.

Themes

politics rights authority

Mood

cautionary critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • government oversight
  • civil resistance
  • legal reform
  • community governance

Key Concepts

social contract legitimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms ensure power stays within bounds?
  • How do we identify legitimate authority?
A Different Perspective

Power structures can be complex and contested.

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