Absolute power Quote by Thomas Paine
“No country can be called free which is governed by an absolute power; and it matters not whether it be an absolute royal power or an absolute legislative power, as the consequences will be the same to the people.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Common Sense, 1776
Absolute power, regardless of its form, inevitably oppresses people and denies true freedom.
In simple terms: Absolute power harms freedom.
Key Takeaway
Guard against unchecked authority.
Themes
freedom
government
rights
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- democratic reform
- civil rights activism
- constitutional design
- public policy
- education
Key Concepts
political philosophy
tyranny
liberty
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can prevent absolute power from harming citizens?
- How does this view apply to modern governments?
A Different Perspective
Even limited absolute power can become oppressive if not checked.
![“It is one thing to be subordinate to the laws, and another [for the Executive] to be dependent on the legislative body. The first comports with, the last violates, the fundamental principles of good government; and, whatever may be the forms of the Constitution, unites all power in the same hands.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be4/alexander-hamilton-619_body_it-is-one-thing-to-be-subordinate-to-the_129196.jpg)
![“As Israel made the wants of his national existence the law of the world, as under the dominance of these wants he deified even his political vindictiveness; so the Christian made the requirements of human feeling the absolute powers and laws of the world. [T]hat is, indeed, only of man considered…” quote by Ludwig Feuerbach](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dd1/ludwig-feuerbach-3406_abrahamism_as-israel-made-the-wants-of-his-national_31284.jpg)
