Absolute Quote by Walter Lippmann
“A state is absolute in the sense which I have in mind when it claims the right to a monopoly of all the force within the community, to make war, to make peace, to conscript life, to tax, to establish and disestablish property, to define crime, to punish disobedience, to control education, to supervise the family, to regulate personal habits, and to censor opinions. The modern state claims all of these powers, and, in the matter of theory, there is no real difference in the size of the claim between communists, fascists, and Democrats.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Public Opinion, 1922
The state claims total control over force, war, peace, taxation, property, crime, education, family, habits, and speech, regardless of political label.
In simple terms: Governments assert ultimate authority over many aspects of life.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question the breadth of state power.
Themes
authority
state power
political theory
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- citizen activism
- legal reform
- academic study
- public debate
Key Concepts
sovereignty
civil liberties
government scope
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should exist on state authority?
- How can citizens hold governments accountable?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused; oversight is essential.
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