"Arbitrary power is like most other things which are very hard, very liable to be broken"

Abigail Adams' quote, "Approximate power resembles the majority of other things which are very hard, really liable to be broken", uses a profound reflection on the nature of authority and governance. At its core, the declaration recommends that power exercised without restraint or responsibility-- approximate power-- is inherently delicate, despite its apparent strength.

To unload this idea, it's essential to initially understand what "arbitrary power" entails. Arbitrary power describes authority that is worked out based on personal whims, unrestrained by laws or ethical considerations. Such power often lacks authenticity because it does not originate from a fair or transparent source, making it inherently unsteady. The quote likens this kind of power to things that are tough and stiff. While these qualities might at first suggest strength, they at the same time recommend brittleness. A hard item, if not malleable, can shatter under pressure rather than bend, meaning the fundamental vulnerability in systems of untreated power.

The brittleness of arbitrary power might originate from a number of factors. First of all, it tends to push away those subject to it, as arbitrary rule seldom thinks about the voice or welfare of the people. This alienation can reproduce dissent and resistance, increasing the probability of rebellion or upheaval. Furthermore, arbitrary power lacks the flexibility necessary to respond successfully to obstacles, making it susceptible to collapse under altering circumstances or pressures.

Adams' insight is particularly relevant in contexts of political governance. Systems that depend on approximate power might appear robust briefly however are likely to face eventual breakdown when their absence of versatility and fairness is exposed. Her observation is an ageless reminder of the significance of a balanced and simply governance structure, one grounded in responsibility and the rule of law, which offers the strength needed to withstand and adapt in time. The quote welcomes us to assess the nature of power and counsels against the attraction of authority untempered by factor and justice.