An empty wire birdcage with its door open hangs beside a blue feather against a softly clouded sky.

Original artwork, not a still

Benjamin Franklin

They that can give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty or safety.

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

The speaker condemns trading essential freedom for a small amount of temporary security. The argument judges the bargain morally, declaring that those who make it deserve neither benefit. Its contrast between lasting liberty and brief safety gives the refusal its force.

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