Absolute freedom Quote by Karl R. Popper
““One particular form of this logical argument is directed against a too naïve version of liberalism, of democracy, and of the principle that the majority should rule; and it is somewhat similar to the well-known ‘paradox of freedom’ which has been used first, and with success, by Plato. In his criticism of democracy, and in his story of the rise of the tyrant, Plato raises implicitly the following question: What if it is the will of the people that they should not rule, but a tyrant instead? The free man, Plato suggests, may exercise his absolute freedom, first by defying the laws and ultimately by defying freedom itself and by clamouring for a tyrant””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Open Society and Its Enemies, Karl R. Popper, 1945
Plato warns that unchecked majority rule can lead to tyranny, as people may demand a strong ruler to protect their freedom, paradoxically surrendering it.
In simple terms: Majority rule can paradoxically create tyranny when people seek a tyrant to protect freedom.
Key Takeaway
Beware of sacrificing liberty for perceived security.
Themes
politics
philosophy
freedom
tyranny
democracy
Mood
cautious
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- public policy debates
- constitutional design
- civil unrest
Key Concepts
paradox of freedom
majority rule
political legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can prevent majority tyranny?
- How does this paradox appear in modern politics?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes a naïve view of liberalism and may overlook safeguards like constitutional checks.
![“[Proportional representation is a] device for defeating democracy, the principle of which was that the majority should rule, and for bringing faddists of all kinds into Parliament, and establishing groups and disintegrating parties.” quote by David Lloyd George](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/101/david-lloyd-george-9272_all-kinds_proportional-representation-is-a-device_1563390.jpg)
