Arbitrary Quote by John Locke
“If you punish him for what he sees you practise yourself, he... will be apt to interpret it the peevishness and arbitrary imperiousness of a father, who, without any ground for it, would deny his son the liberty and pleasure he takes himself.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise on Government, 1689
Punishing a child for their perception mirrors authoritarian control, undermining liberty and trust.
In simple terms: Harsh punishment harms trust and freedom.
Key Takeaway
Foster understanding, not arbitrary authority.
Themes
authority
liberty
parenting
trust
education
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- family upbringing
- school discipline
- workplace management
- mentoring
Key Concepts
political philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can authority be exercised without suppressing autonomy?
- What alternatives exist to punitive measures?
A Different Perspective
Strict discipline can breed resentment and rebellion.
![“Tis a Mistake to think this Fault [tyranny] is proper only to Monarchies; other Forms of Government are liable to it, as well as that. For where-ever the Power that is put in any hands for the Government of the People, and the Preservation of their Properties, is applied to other ends, and made…” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/061/john-locke-814_arbitrary_tis-a-mistake-to-think-this-fault-tyrann_1921223.jpg)
![“[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)
