Accounts Quote by Ludwig von Mises
“If one rejects laissez faire on account of mans fallibility and moral weakness, one must for the same reason also reject every kind of government action.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Human Action, Ludwig von Mises, 1949
Rejecting laissez‑faire due to human flaws implies rejecting any government intervention for the same reason.
In simple terms: If you distrust people, you must distrust all government action.
Question the consistency of your stance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- academic discussions
- political activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to allow limited government while acknowledging fallibility?
- How do you balance liberty and protection?
Critics argue some interventions are necessary despite human flaws.