Age Quote by John Locke
“The great question which, in all ages, has disturbed mankind, and brought on them the greatest part of their mischiefs ... has been, not whether be power in the world, nor whence it came, but who should have it.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1690
The core issue is not power’s source or its existence, but who controls it.
In simple terms: Power’s real question is who holds it.
Key Takeaway
Focus on responsible authority.
Themes
politics
ethics
authority
Mood
concerned
inquisitive
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- government formation
- activism
- policy making
Key Concepts
Legitimacy
social contract
governance
Questions to Reflect On
- Who should be trusted with power?
- What safeguards ensure fair use?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused regardless of source.
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