Famous quote by Benjamin Tucker

"Such security is equal liberty. But it is not necessarily equality in the use of the earth"

About this Quote

Benjamin Tucker, a prominent 19th-century American anarchist and socialist, made significant contributions to libertarian and individualist idea. His assertion: "Such security is equal liberty. But it is not necessarily equality in making use of the earth", encapsulates his philosophical stance on the interplay between security, liberty, and equality.

To unpack this quote, we begin with "Such security is equal liberty". Tucker promoted for a society where people are secure in their personal and residential or commercial property rights, believing that security offers the structure for true liberty. Simply put, individuals can just be really free when they aren't threatened by browbeating or theft and have the assurance that their rights will be appreciated. This security does not suggest a lack of law or order but rather a structure that allows individuals to easily exercise their rights without fear of violation. It lines up with Tucker's vision where voluntary exchanges and contracts govern societal interactions instead of enforced authority.

The second part of the statement, "But it is not always equality in using the earth", presents a difference in between equal liberty and equal access to resources. Tucker asserts that supplying equivalent liberty-- where everybody has the very same security and rights-- does not immediately lead to equal distribution of resources, especially land or the "earth". This subtlety addresses the tension between individualistic and egalitarian principles. While everybody may have an equivalent right to pursue home and wealth, variations will naturally emerge due to differences in ability, ambition, or circumstance.

Tucker challenges the assumption that liberty naturally results in economic or social equality. He recognizes that even in a society where everybody has equal rights, resource use might still be unequal. His belief in specific autonomy indicates that efforts to implement an equivalent circulation of resources might infringe on individual freedoms.

In sum, Tucker's quote reflects his view that liberty rooted in security does not equate to resource equality. It highlights his dedication to individual liberty over enforced equality, suggesting that real liberty includes respecting natural variations in human society.

More details

TagsSecurity

About the Author

USA Flag This quote is from Benjamin Tucker between April 17, 1854 and June 22, 1939. He/she was a famous Activist from USA. The author also have 31 other quotes.
See more from Benjamin Tucker

Similar Quotes

Wayne Dyer, Psychologist
Shortlist

No items yet. Click "Add" on a Quote.