Evil Quote by Walter Raleigh
“Who so taketh in hand to frame any state or government ought to presuppose that all men are evil, and at occasions will show themselves so to be.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Nature of Government," 1595
Argues that any ruler must assume humanity’s inherent evilness, which can surface when needed.
In simple terms: Governments must expect human wickedness.
Plan for moral failings in governance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- statecraft
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders mitigate inherent evil?
- What safeguards protect societies?
Over‑generalizing evil may ignore altruism.