The quote “Who watches the watchmen?” is one of the most famous lines from the 1986 graphic novel Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. It has become a popular phrase used to express the idea that no one should be able to exercise unchecked power. In this article, we will explore the origins and meaning of this quote, and how it has been used and interpreted over the years.
Exploring the “Who Watches The Watchmen” Quote
The quote “Who watches the watchmen?” is often attributed to Juvenal, a Roman poet who lived in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. It appears in his Satires, which are a collection of poems and satires that criticize the corruption of Roman society. In the poem, Juvenal questions the effectiveness of the Roman system of government, asking who will keep an eye on those in power.
The phrase was later used by Thomas More in his 1516 book Utopia, where he wrote “And who shall watch the watchmen, unless the watchers watch themselves?” This is the earliest known reference to the phrase in English literature.
The phrase was also used in the 17th century by British philosopher John Locke in his Second Treatise of Government. He wrote, “Where there is no common power, there is no law, where no law, no injustice. Force and fraud are in war the two cardinal virtues.”
Uncovering the Meaning Behind the Phrase
The phrase “Who watches the watchmen?” has been interpreted in a variety of ways over the years. It has been used to question the effectiveness of government and to criticize the abuse of power by those in authority. It can also be interpreted as a call to ensure that those in power are held accountable for their actions.
The phrase can also be seen as a warning against the dangers of an unchecked government. If those in power are not held accountable, then they can act with impunity, and the rights and freedoms of citizens can be easily taken away.
The phrase has also been used to emphasize the importance of citizens taking an active role in their own governance. By being vigilant and holding their leaders to account, citizens can ensure that their government is acting in their best interests.
The phrase “Who watches the watchmen?” is an enduring reminder of the importance of keeping those in power in check. By being aware of the dangers of an unchecked government, citizens can ensure that their rights and freedoms