Arbitrary Quote by Thomas Sowell
“Once you buy the argument that some segment of the citizenry should lose their rights, just because they are envied or resented, you are putting your own rights in jeopardy - quite aside from undermining any moral basis for respecting anybody's rights. You are opening the floodgates to arbitrary power. And once you open the floodgates, you can't tell the water where to go.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, 1990s
Advocating denial of rights to a group threatens everyone’s freedoms and invites unchecked authority.
In simple terms: Taking rights away from one endangers all.
Key Takeaway
Protect universal rights.
Themes
justice
freedom
power
ethics
Mood
concerned
serious
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- public policy
- community relations
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
social contract
arbitrary authority
rights erosion
Questions to Reflect On
- What groups are most vulnerable to rights erosion?
- How can societies safeguard against arbitrary power?
A Different Perspective
If rights are limited for some, it may legitimize broader oppression.
