True Pearls: Etienne de La Boetie 1530-63

French political theorist, poet and writer

- RICHARD HOUSE

There is nothing so contrary to a generous and loving God as tyranny.

Liberty is the natural condition of the people. Servitude, however, is fostered when people are raised in subjection.

Where has he who domineers over you acquired enough eyes to spy upon you, if you do not provide them yourselves? How can he have so many arms to beat you with, if he does not borrow them from you? How would he dare assail you if he had no co-operation from you? What could he do to you if you yourselves did not connive with the thief who plunders you?