Bearing arms Quote by William Barclay
“Self-defense is a part of the law of nature; nor can it be denied the community, even against the king himself.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Law of Nature, 17th century
Self‑defence is a natural right that even the community must respect, regardless of authority.
In simple terms: Self‑defence is a natural right.
Key Takeaway
Respect the right to protect oneself.
Themes
rights
law
community
authority
Mood
defervent
serious
Type
ethical
legal
When to use this quote
- personal safety
- legal defense
- community protection
Key Concepts
natural law
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- When should community interests override personal defence?
- How to balance authority with natural rights?
A Different Perspective
May conflict arise when community norms oppose individual self‑defence.
![“The right of self defense is the first law of nature; in most governments it has been the study of rulers to confine this right within the narrowest possible limits...and [when] the right of the people to keep and bear arms is, under any color or pretext whatsoever, prohibited, liberty, if not…” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ecd/anonymous-1_education_the-right-of-self-defense-is-the-first-l_894425.jpg)
