Identity Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“There be as many persons of a king, as there be petty constables in his kingdom. And so there are, or else he cannot be obeyed. But I never said that a king, and every one of his persons, are the same substance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan, 1651
A ruler must have many officials to enforce his will; otherwise obedience collapses.
In simple terms: Kings need many agents to be obeyed.
Ensure proper delegation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- statecraft
- administration
- law enforcement
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How many officials are necessary for effective governance?
- When does delegation become overreach?
Too many agents can create bureaucracy and oppression.