"The welfare of the people in particular has always been the alibi of tyrants"

Albert Camus, noted philosopher and author, sharply observes that oppressors often invoke the wellbeing of the people to justify their actions. Throughout history, some of the most authoritarian regimes, parties, and leaders have presented themselves as champions of the common good. They insist their repressive measures, censorship, and coercive policies are not for personal gain but for the greater prosperity, health, or stability of the populace. By claiming to act in the people's name, they shield themselves from criticism and rally support for policies that curtail freedom.

This rhetorical maneuver is effective because it appeals to universal values. Few would openly reject the concept of public welfare. However, when abstracted from genuine human needs, the concept becomes malleable, capable of justifying nearly any action. Camus points out the danger of such manipulation: when tyrants exploit noble ideals for ignoble ends, the phrase "the welfare of the people" becomes a mask for cruelty and control. In this guise, government becomes less an expression of collective will and more an instrument for suppressing dissent, maintaining power, and stifling individual liberties.

History abounds with examples: repressive laws passed for "national security", censorship in the name of "public morality", mass surveillance presented as "public safety". The invocation of collective good becomes a means to silence critics, labeling them as enemies of progress, stability, or unity. Those who question or resist are painted as threats to the very welfare tyrants claim to uphold.

Camus’s insight serves as a caution. The true measure of a society’s concern for its people lies not in rhetoric but in actions, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights. Citizens must remain vigilant, questioning those in power who invoke the public good to justify restricting it, lest they sacrifice freedom for the illusion of wellbeing.