Anarchy Quote by Joseph Sobran
“Even if we are all doomed to live under the state, it doesn't follow that there is, or even can be, such a thing as a good state.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political Philosophy, 1990s
The author argues that a state can be oppressive, and that the notion of a “good state” is questionable.
In simple terms: Questioning the idea of a benevolent government.
Key Takeaway
Critically evaluate government legitimacy.
Themes
politics
philosophy
government
skepticism
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
skeptical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- activism
- academic debate
Key Concepts
social contract
authority
liberty
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a “good” state?
- Can a state ever be truly just?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing state may ignore inherent power flaws.
![“...[T]he Constitution conferred only a few specific powers on the federal government, all others being denied to it (as the Tenth Amendment would make plain). Unfortunately, only a tiny fraction of the U.S. population today - subtle logicians like you - can grasp such nuances. Too bad. The…” quote by Joseph Sobran](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e81/joseph-sobran-6902_amendments_t-he-constitution-conferred-only-a-few-s_384248.jpg)
![“...[T]oday's Washington is about as attentive to the Tenth Amendment as the Unitarian Church is to the Book of Revelation.” quote by Joseph Sobran](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b72/joseph-sobran-6902_amendments_t-oday-s-washington-is-about-as-attentiv_404524.jpg)
