Authority Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“I know not how the world will receive it, nor how it may reflect on those that shall seem to favor it. For in a way beset with those that contend, on one side for too great Liberty , and on the other side for too much Authority , 'tis hard to passe between the points of both unwounded.”
About This Quote
Balancing liberty and authority is difficult; excess of either harms society.
In simple terms: Too much freedom or control is harmful.
Key Takeaway
Seek moderate governance.
Themes
politics
freedom
authority
balance
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- civil unrest
- public debate
- reform movements
Key Concepts
social contract
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should liberty have?
- How can authority be checked?
A Different Perspective
Finding the right equilibrium is context‑dependent.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)