"Nip the shoots of arbitrary power in the bud, is the only maxim which can ever preserve the liberties of any people"

In this quote, John Quincy Adams is stressing the value of avoiding the growth of unattended and oppressive authority. He uses the metaphor of "nipping the shoots" to illustrate the concept of stopping something before it has a chance to fully establish and become a threat. Adams believes that this is the only method to safeguard the liberties and rights of a society. By doing something about it early on and not allowing arbitrary power to take hold, the liberties of individuals can be preserved. This quote works as a tip to always be alert and proactive in securing versus the abuse of power.