Hence, the less government we have, the better, - the fewer laws, and the less confided power. The antidote to this abuse of formal Government, is, the influence of private character, the growth of the Individual.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Emerson argues that minimal government and laws are preferable, relying instead on individual character to prevent abuse.
- In plain terms
- Less government is better, and personal character should guide society more than formal rules.
- What can you take from it?
- Trust individual integrity over centralized power.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How much power should the state hold?
- Can character replace law?
Another view
It assumes individuals always act ethically without oversight.
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