Autocracy Quote by Otto Hermann Kahn
“The deadliest foe of democracy is not autocracy but liberty frenzied. Liberty is not foolproof. For its beneficent working it demands self-restraint, a sane and clear recognition of the practical and attainable, and of the fact that there are laws of nature which are beyond our power to change.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political Thought, early 20th century
Democracy’s greatest danger is not authoritarian rule but uncontrolled liberty, which requires self‑restraint and realistic limits acknowledging natural laws beyond human control.
In simple terms: Unchecked freedom can threaten democracy; self‑control is needed.
Key Takeaway
Balance freedom with responsibility and realistic expectations.
Themes
democracy
freedom
responsibility
political theory
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative design
- civic education
- media regulation
- public policy
Key Concepts
liberalism
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should society place on individual liberty?
- How do we recognize natural limits?
A Different Perspective
Too much restraint can suppress necessary change.
