"When the people fear the government, there is tyranny. When the government fears the people, there is liberty"

This quote by Thomas Jefferson talks to the power characteristics in between the government and the people. When individuals fear the federal government, it implies that the federal government has excessive power and is using it to oppress individuals. This is tyranny, where the federal government has complete control and the people have no say. On the other hand, when the government fears the people, it indicates that individuals have the power to hold the government accountable and to demand their rights. This is liberty, where individuals have the power to shape their own fate and to guarantee that their government is acting in their benefits. This quote is a pointer that individuals need to always have the power to hold their government liable and to make sure that their rights are appreciated.