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Government Quote by Thomas Sowell

“Those government officials who want more power are not going to stop unless they get stopped.” quote by Thomas Sowell
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“Those government officials who want more power are not going to stop unless they get stopped.”

Thomas Sowell

About This Quote

Source Book: Economic Thought, Thomas Sowell, 2003

Officials seeking more power will persist until external constraints halt them, highlighting the self‑reinforcing nature of authority.

In simple terms: Power seekers stop only when stopped by others

Key Takeaway

Implement checks to limit authority expansion

Themes

politics power control

Mood

analytical critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • legislative oversight
  • transparency measures
  • public accountability
  • whistleblower protections

Key Concepts

Political theory institutional design

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms effectively curb power abuse?
  • How does public awareness influence political accountability?
A Different Perspective

Power can be resisted through internal reform

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