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Power must never be trusted without a check.
John Adams
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Power should always be monitored to prevent abuse.

This quote by John Adams emphasizes the importance of accountability in leadership and governance. It suggests that unchecked power can lead to tyranny and that systems of oversight are essential in maintaining a balance between authority and liberty.

Themes

PowerAccountabilityAuthorityChecks And BalancesLeadership

In practice

Example use cases

During a political debate, to stress the importance of oversight in government.

More from John Adams

Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
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Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
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There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
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Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
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