Boundaries Quote by Ludwig von Mises
“A nation, therefore, has no right to say to a province: You belong to me, I want to take you. A province consists of its inhabitants. If anybody has a right to be heard in this case it is these inhabitants. Boundary disputes should be settled by plebiscite.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Human Action, Ludwig von Mises, 1949
Self‑determination belongs to people, not distant rulers; borders should be decided by the inhabitants themselves.
In simple terms: People decide their own fate; votes settle borders.
Key Takeaway
Let people choose their own affiliation.
Themes
self‑determination
political legitimacy
democracy
Mood
reflective
political
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- regional referendums
- independence movements
- local governance
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
social contract
sovereignty
plebiscite
Questions to Reflect On
- Who should have the final say on borders?
- How to protect minorities in a vote?
A Different Perspective
Complexities of minority rights and external pressures can complicate plebiscites.
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