Men often oppose a thing merely because they have had no agency in planning it, or because it may have been planned by those whom they dislike.
Interpretation
People frequently resist ideas not because of their merit, but due to their lack of involvement or dislike for the originator.
This quote by Alexander Hamilton suggests that opposition to certain ideas or proposals often stems from personal biases rather than their actual value. It highlights how individuals may reject concepts simply because they feel excluded from the decision-making process or harbor negative feelings toward those who proposed them, illustrating the importance of inclusivity in discussions and planning.
In practice
In a meeting where new policies are introduced, one might quote Hamilton to highlight resistance from those feeling excluded.
When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
The tendency of a national bank is to increase public and private credit. The former gives power to the state, for the protection of its rights and interests: and the latter facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.
It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government.
The Achaeans soon experienced, as often happens, that a victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.
The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
I drink for the thirst to come.
So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.
So much of liberalism in its classical sense is taken for granted in the west today and even disrespected. We take freedom for granted, and because of this we don't understand how incredibly vulnerable it is.
I want people to remember me as someone whose life has been helpful to humanity.
You can share your testimony in many ways, by the words you speak, by the example you set, by the manner in which you live your life.
People always want to be on the right side of history; it is a lot easier to say, 'What an atrocity that was' then it is to say, 'What an atrocity this is.'
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