Voltaire, the renowned French philosopher and writer of the Enlightenment era, is known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on various subjects, including government. His quotes on government reflect his skepticism towards the authority and power structures that existed during his time. Voltaire’s ideas on government continue to resonate today, as we grapple with similar issues of governance and the balance of power. In this article, we delve into some of Voltaire’s most thought-provoking quotes on government that shed light on his philosophy and provide valuable insights for our own contemporary discourse.
In Voltaire’s time, monarchies largely governed Europe, and the power of kings and queens was absolute. Voltaire criticized this system, advocating for a more egalitarian society where individual freedoms were valued. His quotes on government often challenge the notion of unchecked power and highlight the importance of accountability and representation. These ideas were radical at the time, but they laid the foundation for modern democratic principles that we uphold today.
Read these Voltaire quotes on government
1. “It is dangerous to be right when the government is wrong.”
2. “In general, the art of government consists in taking as much money as possible from one class of citizens to give to the other.”
3. “The comfort of the rich depends upon an abundant supply of the poor.”
4. “The best government is that which teaches us to govern ourselves.”
5. “The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.”
6. “I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”
7. “Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.”
8. “Injustice in the end produces independence.”
9. “No opinion is worth burning your neighbor for.”
10. “To hold a pen is to be at war.”
11. “Common sense is not so common.”
12. “It is forbidden to kill; therefore, all murderers are punished, unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.”
13. “Prejudices are what fools use for reason.”
14. “The secret of being a bore is to tell everything.”
15. “Doubt is not a pleasant condition, but certainty is absurd.”
16. “Man is free at the moment he wishes to be.”
17. “The more I read, the more I acquire, the more certain I am that I know nothing.”
18. “Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers.”
19. “The mirror is a worthless invention until it shows you your face.”
20. “It is difficult to free fools from the chains they revere.”
These quotes by Voltaire showcase his sharp intellect and profound observations on government. They serve as a reminder of the need for critical thinking, individual freedoms, and the pursuit of justice and equality in any system of governance. Voltaire’s ideas continue to inspire and guide us in our quest for a better understanding of government and the power dynamics that shape our societies.
