"The state can be and has often been in the course of history the main source of mischief and disaster"
- Ludwig von Mises
About this Quote
This quote by Ludwig von Mises is a warning against the power of the state. He is recommending that throughout history, the state has been a major source of destruction and mayhem. He is suggesting that the state has the possible to cause excellent harm if it is not kept in check. He is also suggesting that the state must not be offered excessive power, as it can be utilized to oppress and exploit its citizens. He is advocating for a system of government that is restricted in its power and is accountable to its people. He is also recommending that people must be alert in keeping an eye on the actions of their government, as it can be a source of excellent harm if it is not kept in check. Ultimately, this quote is a suggestion that the state must not be provided too much power, as it can be a source of fantastic damage and chaos.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"
"We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people - history has made us all South Africans"
"It is humiliating to remain with our hands folded while others write history. It matters little who wins. To make a people great it is necessary to send them to battle even if you have to kick them in the pants. That is what I shall do"
