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Post by Cujo on Dec 22, 2012 9:17:48 GMT -5
Tyranny is usually thought of as cruel and oppressive, and it often is, but the original definition of the term was rule by persons who lack legitimacy, whether they be malign or benevolent. Historically, benign tyrannies have tended to be insecure, and to try to maintain their power by becoming increasingly oppressive. Therefore, rule that initially seems benign is inherently dangerous, and the only security is to maintain legitimacy — an unbroken accountability to the people through the framework of a written constitution that provides for election of key officials and the division of powers among branches and officials in a way that avoids concentration of powers in the hands of a few persons who might then abuse those powers. Tyranny is an important phenomenon that operates by principles by which it can be recognized in its early emerging stages, and, if the people are vigilant, prepared, and committed to liberty, countered before it becomes entrenched. constitution.org/tyr/prin_tyr.htmI suggest reading the entire writing, note the section of The methodology of tyranny, look familiar?
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Post by Michael Downing on Dec 22, 2012 10:26:08 GMT -5
Good intentions will always be pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the dangers of good intentions. There are men in all ages who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters. Daniel Webster
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Post by hefferman1 on Dec 22, 2012 14:38:47 GMT -5
Good intentions will always be pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the dangers of good intentions. There are men in all ages who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters. Daniel Webster One of my favorite quotes. Many take the point of view that they have a right to rule over people. The trouble for them is, there are those of us who are free men, who refuse to be ruled and turned into slave.
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