Slavery discourages arts and manufacturing ...[and] every master of slaves is born a petty tyrant.
George MasonRead
All power is lodged in, and consequently derived from, the people. We should wear it as a breastplate, and buckle it on as our armour.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The power of authority comes from the people, and we must protect and embrace it.
This quote by George Mason emphasizes the fundamental principle of democracy that the true source of power lies with the people. It encourages citizens to actively embrace their role in governance, safeguarding their influence and participating in the democratic process as if it were protective armor essential for their freedom and rights.
Themes
PowerPeopleDemocracyLeadershipParticipation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a political rally to inspire civic engagement.
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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A leader does not deserve the name unless he is willing occasionally to stand alone.
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No easy problems ever come to the President of the United States. If they are easy to solve, someone else has solved them.
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Firstly, you must always implicitly obey orders, without attempting to form any opinion of your own respecting their propriety. Secondly, you must consider every man your enemy who speaks ill of your king; and thirdly, you must hate a Frenchman, as you do the devil.
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