Slavery discourages arts and manufacturing ...[and] every master of slaves is born a petty tyrant.
George MasonRead
No free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people, but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A free government and liberty can only be sustained through commitment to moral principles and self-restraint.
George Mason's quote emphasizes the vital role that justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue play in maintaining a free government and the blessings of liberty. It suggests that societal well-being and freedom are not merely given but must be actively preserved by the people's adherence to these moral and ethical values, underscoring the responsibility of individuals in any democratic society.
Themes
GovernmentLibertyJusticeModerationVirtueFreedom
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate to underscore the importance of virtue in governance.
More from George Mason
All quotes βEvery society, all government, and every kind of civil compact therefore, is or ought to be, calculated for the general good and safety of the community.
George MasonRead
There is a Passion natural to the Mind of man, especially a free Man, which renders him impatient of Restraint.
George MasonRead
Government is, or ought to be instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation, or community... when any government shall be found inadequate or contrary to these purposes, a majority of the community hath an indubitable, inalienable, and indefeasible right to reform, alter, or abolish it, in such manner as shall be judged most conducive to the public weal.
George MasonRead
As much as I value an union of all the states, I would not admit the southern states into the union, unless they agreed to the discontinuance of this disgraceful trade, because it would bring weakness and not strength to the union.
George MasonRead
All men are by nature born equally free and independent.
George MasonRead
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