Chains Quote by John Locke
“He that has his chains knocked off, and the prison doors set open to him, is perfectly at liberty, because he may either go or stay, as he best likes; though his preference be determined to stay, by the darkness of the night, or illness of the weather, or want of other lodging.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Two Treatises of Government, 1689
Freedom is true when one can choose to stay or leave, regardless of external constraints.
In simple terms: Freedom is choice despite constraints.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that liberty includes the option to stay.
Themes
freedom
choice
autonomy
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- travel
- health crises
- weather conditions
Key Concepts
political philosophy
liberalism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you feel you can truly choose to stay or go?
- What external factors influence your decisions?
A Different Perspective
Even with options, external pressures may limit true freedom.
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
