Average Quote by Ludwig von Mises
“...this remedy is the power of the citizens; they have to prevent the establishment of such an autocratic regime that arrogates to itself a higher wisdom than that of the average citizen. This is the fundamental difference between freedom and serfdom.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Human Action, 1949
Citizens must guard against authoritarian rule that claims superior wisdom over the average person, distinguishing freedom from servitude.
In simple terms: Prevent elites from claiming higher wisdom.
Key Takeaway
Defend democratic participation.
Themes
freedom
autocracy
citizen empowerment
Mood
cautionary
inspirational
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- civic activism
- public discourse
- policy making
Key Concepts
political theory
liberalism
self‑governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies sustain informed citizenry?
- What mechanisms protect against authoritarian drift?
A Different Perspective
Even vigilant citizens can be swayed by charismatic leaders.
![“[G]overnment can, instead of extending freedom, restrict freedom. And note ... that the 'can' quickly becomes 'will' the moment the holders of government power are left to their own devices. This is because of the corrupting influence of power, the natural tendency of men who possess some power to…” quote by Barry Goldwater](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/289/barry-goldwater-3353_acquisition_g-overnment-can-instead-of-extending-fre_3176762.jpg)
![“Ever read any [Friedrich] Hayek? He's great. The Road To Serfdom is like... I'm not a big political-science reader, but I actually dog-eared my copy. I ended up going back through it and writing a précis, I was so impressed by this book. It's all about what happens when government tries to make…” quote by P. J. O'Rourke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2be/p-j-o-rourke-184_bigs_ever-read-any-friedrich-hayek-he-s-great_507817.jpg)
