There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A free government must distrust any powerful individual to protect public liberty.
- In plain terms
- Free governments should not trust powerful people with liberty.
- What can you take from it?
- Implement checks on authority to safeguard freedom.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can trust be balanced with oversight?
- What mechanisms best prevent power abuse?
Another view
Total distrust can hinder effective leadership.
More from John Adams
The law no passion can disturb. 'Tis void of desire and fear, lust and anger. 'Tis mens sine affectu, written reason, retaining some measure of the divine perf…
Permalink to quote #3 Nip the shoots of arbitrary power in the bud, is the only maxim which can ever preserve the liberties of any people.
Permalink to quote #5 Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.
Permalink to quote #2
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