No man can be subject to any laws, excepting those which have received the assent of himself or his representatives and which are promulgated beforehand and applied legally.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
If the liberties of the American people are ever destroyed, they will fall by the hands of the clergy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote warns that the loss of personal freedoms may come from those who are supposed to lead in moral and spiritual matters.
Marquis De Lafayette's quote emphasizes the potential danger posed by religious leaders to the freedoms of society. He suggests that if the liberties of the American people are compromised, it is likely due to the influence and power wielded by the clergy, who are expected to uphold ethical and moral standards. This points to the concern of religious authority overstepping its bounds and infringing upon individual rights and freedoms.
Themes
LibertyFreedomClergyInfluenceWarning
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the separation of church and state, this quote can be used to highlight concerns about religious influence in government.
More from Marquis De Lafayette
All quotes →May the States be so bound to each other as forever to defy European politics. Upon that union, their consequence, their happiness, will depend. This is the first wish of a heart more truly American than words can express.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
Insurrection is the most sacred of rights and the most indispensable of duties.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
True republicanism is the sovereignty of the people. There are natural and imprescriptible rights which an entire nation has no right to violate.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The affairs of America I shall ever look upon as my first business whilst I am in Europe. Any confidence from the king and ministers, any popularity I may have among my own countrymen, any means in my power, shall be, to the best of my skill, and till the end of my life, exerted in behalf of an interest I have so much at heart.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
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