Absolutes Quote by Lord Acton
“Whenever a single definite object is made the supreme end of the State, be it the advantage of a class, the safety of the power of the country, the greatest happiness of the greatest number, or the support of any speculative idea, the State becomes for the time inevitably absolute. Liberty alone demands for its realization the limitation of the public authority, for liberty is the only object which benefits all alike, and provokes no sincere opposition.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on Liberty and Power, 1885
When the state makes any single goal its ultimate purpose, it inevitably becomes absolute, threatening liberty which requires limiting public authority.
In simple terms: State absolute power endangers liberty.
Key Takeaway
Guard against single‑issue dominance.
Themes
politics
liberty
state power
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative policy
- government reform
- civil rights movements
Key Concepts
absolute authority
public good
individual rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect liberty while pursuing common goals?
- What mechanisms prevent state overreach?
A Different Perspective
Balancing diverse interests can be complex and may dilute decisive action.
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