Confidence Quote by Thomas Paine
“We repose an unwise confidence in any government, or in any men, when we invest them officially with too much, or an unnecessary quantity of, discretionary power.”
About This Quote
Source Pamphlet: Common Sense, 1776
Excessive trust in government grants it too much discretionary power, leading to unwise confidence.
In simple terms: Too much faith in government gives it excess power.
Key Takeaway
Limit authority, demand accountability.
Themes
government
power
trust
politics
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public policy
- civic engagement
- legislative reform
- activism
Key Concepts
social contract theory
checks and balances
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens balance trust and oversight?
- What mechanisms curb governmental overreach?
A Different Perspective
Power can be necessary for order.
