Anarchy Quote by Mikhail Bakunin
“What is freedom? What is slavery? Does man's freedom consist in revolting against all laws? We say No, in so far as laws are natural, economic, and social laws, not authoritatively imposed but inherent in things, in relations, in situations, the natural development of which is expressed by those laws. We say Yes if they are political and juridical laws, imposed by men upon men: whether violently by the right of force; whether by deceit and hypocrisy - in the name of religion or any doctrine whatever; or finally, by dint of the fiction, the democratic falsehood called universal suffrage.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political Theory, Mikhail Bakunin, 1865
Distinguishes natural laws from imposed political laws, questioning whether freedom means obeying or rebelling against authority.
In simple terms: Freedom vs. imposed laws.
Key Takeaway
Question the source of authority.
Themes
politics
philosophy
freedom
law
authority
Mood
critical
provocative
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- legal reform
- civil disobedience
- democratic participation
- critical debate
Key Concepts
natural law
social contract
political legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What laws feel natural to you?
- When is civil disobedience justified?
A Different Perspective
Complex language may obscure core point.
