Tyranny has perhaps oftener grown out of the assumptions of power, called for, on pressing exigencies, by a defective constitution, than out of the full exercise of the largest constitutional authorities.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that tyranny often arises from a misuse of power in urgent situations rather than from full constitutional authority.
Alexander Hamilton's quote highlights the danger of allowing emergency powers or exceptions to undermine constitutional governance. It warns that in times of crisis, leaders may assume powers that can lead to tyranny, even when they believe such actions are necessary. This perspective serves as a caution against the erosion of democratic principles under the guise of urgent necessity.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of civil liberties during a national crisis.
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.
The two most frightening words in Washington are 'bipartisan consensus.' Bipartisan consensus is when my doctor and my lawyer agree with my wife that I need help.
Our 'neoconservatives' are neither new nor conservative, but old as Bablyon and evil as Hell.
Any government that supports, protects or harbours terrorists is complicit in the murder of the innocent and equally guilty of terrorist crimes.
In the United States large corporations control some members of Congress. All this does is delay the corporation’s funeral at our expense.
The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter.
Power must never be trusted without a check.
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