How, then, can the rights of three men exceed the rights of two men? In what possible way can the rights of three men absorb the rights of two men, and make them as if they had never existed. . . . It is not possible to suppose, without absurdity, than a man should have no rights over his own body and mind, and yet have a 1/10,000,000th share in unlimited rights over all other bodies and minds?

Summary

This quote challenges the notion that the collective rights of a majority can override the rights of an individual or a minority group. It questions the idea that the participation in a collective entity, such as society or government, should automatically enable individuals to possess ultimate control over the bodies and minds of others. The quote suggests that it is illogical to assume that an individual should have no sovereignty over their own being while simultaneously possessing a fractional share in unlimited control over others. In essence, it encourages a reevaluation of the balance between individual rights and majority rule.

Topics