Above the law Quote by William Hazlitt
“Wherever the Government does not emanate...from the people, the principle of the Government, the esprit de corps, the point of honour, in all those connected with it, and raised by it to privileges above the law and above humanity, will be hatred to the people.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "On Government and the People", 1820
When a government elevates itself above law and humanity, it breeds hatred among the populace
In simple terms: Power that ignores people creates resentment
Key Takeaway
Check authority against the people and humanity
Themes
authority
law
humanity
government
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public policy
- civil rights movements
- legislative reforms
- community activism
Key Concepts
political philosophy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect against authoritarian excess?
- How can citizens hold leaders accountable?
A Different Perspective
Power can be justified without oppression
