Skip to content

Foolish Quote by Thomas Hobbes

“There are very few so foolish that they had not rather govern themselves than be governed by others.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
Download Open image
“There are very few so foolish that they had not rather govern themselves than be governed by others.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

Source Book: Leviathan, 1651

Self‑governance is preferable to external control.

In simple terms: Prefer ruling self over being ruled.

Key Takeaway

Value personal autonomy.

Themes

politics freedom philosophy

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • community decisions
  • personal budgeting
  • career choices

Key Concepts

social contract individualism

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is external guidance beneficial?
  • How do you ensure personal decisions serve the common good?
A Different Perspective

Self‑rule may ignore collective needs.

3.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Thomas Hobbes

Explore all 285 Thomas Hobbes quotes

More Foolish quotes

Browse all 1,867 Foolish quotes