Authority Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Our rulers can have authority over such natural rights only as we have submitted to them.”
About This Quote
Source Letter to James Madison, 1787
Political power is justified only when citizens consent to it.
In simple terms: Authority needs consent.
Key Takeaway
Participate actively in governance.
Themes
democracy
consent
rights
Mood
thoughtful
hopeful
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- voting
- community organizing
- public comment
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Social contract
civic duty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your voice is heard?
- What mechanisms strengthen consent in modern societies?
A Different Perspective
Consent can be vague, leading to authoritarian drift.
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![“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)