Government Quote by L. Neil Smith
“Government is about stealing and nothing else. That's all it's ever been about. That's all it'll ever be about.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Probability Broach by L. Neil Smith, 1979
The statement reflects a cynical view that government exists solely to take resources from citizens.
In simple terms: Government is seen as theft.
Key Takeaway
Question the role and limits of government.
Themes
politics
freedom
authority
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- tax policy
- public services
- civil liberties
Key Concepts
anarchism
libertarianism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is any government ever justified?
- What alternatives exist to current systems?
A Different Perspective
Governments also provide public goods and security, which complicates the view.
