Freedom Quote by Montesquieu
““They maintain that all unlimited power must be unlawful, because it cannot have had a lawful origin. For, we cannot, say they, give to another more power over us than we ourselves have : now, we have not unlimited power over ourselves ; for example, we have no right to take our own lives: no one upon earth then, they conclude, had such a power.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Spirit of the Laws, 1748
Unlimited power is inherently unlawful because it lacks a legitimate origin and can exceed personal autonomy.
In simple terms: Absolute power is illegal.
Key Takeaway
Guard against unchecked authority.
Themes
law
philosophy
politics
human rights
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
legal
When to use this quote
- constitutional design
- civil liberties
- government oversight
- public discourse
Key Concepts
sovereignty
legitimacy
self‑determination
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should be placed on governmental power?
- How does society define lawful authority?
A Different Perspective
Power can be justified under certain legal frameworks.
![“[92] Plato, in his fourth book of Laws, says that the præfectures of music and gymnic exercises are the most important employments in the city; and, in his Republic, iii, Damon will tell you, says he, what sounds are capable of corrupting the mind with base sentiments, or of inspiring the contrary…” quote by Montesquieu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/316/montesquieu-19593_books_92-plato-in-his-fourth-book-of-laws-says_1724267.jpg)
