The tyranny of some is possible only through the cowardice of others.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Tyranny exists only when others allow it through their fear or passivity.
- In plain terms
- Tyrants rule because others are too cowardly to stop them.
- What can you take from it?
- Oppression relies on the silence of the bystander.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do people stay silent?
- Who is responsible for stopping tyrants?
Another view
Fear sometimes prevents action even when courage is present.
More from Jose Rizal
No good water comes from a muddy spring. No sweet fruit comes from a bitter seed.
Permalink to quote #23 Man works for an object. Remove that object and you reduce him into inaction.
Permalink to quote #25 Muse who in the past inspired me to sing of the throes of love: Go and repose. What I need is a sword, rivers of gold, and acrid prose.
Permalink to quote #22
Related quotes
No one can terrorize a whole nation, unless we are all his accomplices.
Edward R. MurrowEdward R. Murrow quote #4 The humblest citizen in all the land, when clad in the armor of a righteous cause, is stronger than all the hosts of error.
William Jennings BryanWilliam Jennings Bryan quote #13 Les habiles tyrans ne sont jamais punis.
VoltaireVoltaire quote #17