Fear is the foundation of most governments; but it is so sordid and brutal a passion, and renders men in whose breasts it predominates so stupid and miserable, that Americans will not be likely to approve of any political institution which is founded on it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Fear is a corrupt and brutal basis for government, making people stupid and miserable, and Americans will reject institutions built on it.
- In plain terms
- Governments founded on fear degrade citizens.
- What can you take from it?
- Avoid ruling through intimidation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What are the signs of fear‑based rule?
- Can fear ever be justified in governance?
Another view
Some argue fear can be a temporary tool for stability.
More from John Adams
We ought to consider what is the end of government, before we determine which is the best form. Upon this point all speculative politicians will agree, that th…
Permalink to quote #71 When annual elections end, there slavery begins.
Permalink to quote #73 Let every sluice of knowledge be opened and set a-flowing.
Permalink to quote #70
Related quotes
Nothing irritates us [Fascists] so much as to be taken for pillars of order. Nothing so exasperates us as the people who come to us through fear of Communism. …
Alessandro PavoliniAlessandro Pavolini quote #1 Authoritarianism and secrecy breed incompetence; the two feed on each other. It's a vicious cycle. Governments with authoritarian tendencies point to what is i…
Joshua Micah MarshallJoshua Micah Marshall quote #2 As long as the Shah's satanic power prevails, not a single true representative of the people can possibly be elected
Ruhollah KhomeiniRuhollah Khomeini quote #11