Common Quote by Jonathan Mayhew
“The only reason of the institution of civil government; and the only rational ground of submission to it, is the common safety and utility”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Rights of the British Colonists, 1765
Government exists to protect collective safety and provide useful services; obedience is justified by shared benefit.
In simple terms: Government protects safety and usefulness.
Key Takeaway
Support institutions that ensure public safety.
Themes
politics
philosophy
social contract
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- community planning
- public health initiatives
Key Concepts
public safety
utility
legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal liberty with collective security?
- When is it justified to challenge authority?
A Different Perspective
May ignore individual freedoms for perceived safety.
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