more from David Hume

Single Idea 21097

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 2. Leaders / b. Monarchy]

Full Idea

In modern times monarchical government seems to have made the greatest advances towards perfection. It may now be affirmed of civilized monarchies, what was formerly said in praise of republics alone, that they are a government of laws, not of men.

Gist of Idea

Modern monarchies are (like republics) rule by law, rather than by men

Source

David Hume (Of Civil Liberty [1750], p.54)

Book Reference

Hume,David: 'Selected Essays' [OUP 1996], p.54


A Reaction

Dreams of simple 'government by law' disappeared with the rise of modern media, which can be controlled by wealth.