QuoteProject
If, in the opinion of the people, the distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.
George Washington
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Change in government should follow constitutional processes rather than forceful measures.

George Washington emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and processes when considering changes to governmental powers. He warns against usurpation, suggesting that while it might lead to temporary good, it ultimately undermines the foundation of free governments.

Themes

ConstitutionGovernanceUsurpationAmendmentFreedom

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about constitutional rights during a political debate.

More from George Washington

Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee.
George WashingtonRead
The duty of holding a Neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity toward other Nations.
George WashingtonRead
We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency. We expected to encounter many wants and distressed we must bear the present evils and fortitude
George WashingtonRead
What is most important of this grand experiment, the United States? Not the election of the first president but the election of its second president. The peaceful transition of power is what will separate this country from every other country in the world.
George WashingtonRead
Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.
George WashingtonRead
No man has a more perfect reliance on the alwise and powerful dispensations _x000D_ of the Supreme Being than I have, nor thinks His aid more necessary.
George WashingtonRead

Similar quotes

He look'd in years, yet in his years were seen A youthful vigor, and autumnal green.
John DrydenRead
Prayer is to the skeptic a delusion, a waste of time. To the believer it represents perhaps the most important use of time.
Philip YanceyRead
Without fullness of experience, length of days is nothing. When fullness of life has been achieved, shortness of days is nothing. That is perhaps why the young have usually so little fear of death; they live by intensities that the elderly have forgotten.
Lewis MumfordRead
The Great Way is not difficult for those who have no preferences.
SengcanRead
I have never felt that the one thing that I am 'known for' is what I am.
Alice WalkerRead
Cowardice and courage are never without a measure of affectation. Nor is love. Feelings are never true. They play with their mirrors.
Jean BaudrillardRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.