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About this quote

What does it mean?
People want a perfect state but only trust authoritarian ones, showing a paradox.
In plain terms
We want freedom but only believe in strict control.
What can you take from it?
Notice contradictions in political desires.

Where it applies

  • political philosophy
  • governance
  • social theory

Putting it to work

  • question authority assumptions
  • seek balanced governance

Questions to consider

  • What kind of state do you trust?
  • Is freedom and order compatible?

Another view

Not everyone holds cynical views about utopia.

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