Away Quote by P. J. O'Rourke
“War expands government powers. The trouble is that, when the war goes away, the government powers do not.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "War and Its Consequences", 1990
War expands government authority, and those powers often persist after the conflict ends.
In simple terms: War gives governments more power that can linger.
Guard against permanent power growth post‑war.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislation
- public oversight
- citizen activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure power reduction after war?
- How can citizens hold governments accountable?
Emergency powers can be abused under the guise of security.