Anarchy Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“They that are discontented under monarchy, call it tyranny; and they that are displeased with aristocracy, call it oligarchy: so also, they which find themselves grieved under a democracy, call it anarchy, which signifies the want of government; and yet I think no man believes, that want of government, is any new kind of government.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan, 1651
People label government deficiencies as tyranny, oligarchy, or anarchy, yet these are merely complaints about lack of governance.
In simple terms: People blame government for problems, but they just want order.
Key Takeaway
Seek effective governance rather than labels.
Themes
politics
government
discontent
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- public debates
- policy making
- civic education
- activism
Key Concepts
social contract
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “want of government” truly mean?
- How can societies balance order and freedom?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex political realities.
