“The state of slavery is in its own nature bad.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“The state of slavery is in its own nature bad.”
Explanation
Montesquieu condemns slavery outright, asserting that it is inherently unjust regardless of circumstance or justification. By stating that slavery is “in its own nature bad,” he makes a universal moral claim: no context, tradition, or supposed benefit can make the ownership of one human being by another morally acceptable. This declaration stands in stark contrast to many of his contemporaries who sought to rationalize slavery through economic, religious, or racial arguments.
In The Spirit of the Laws, Montesquieu goes further to expose and ridicule the typical arguments used to defend slavery, often using irony to highlight their cruelty and absurdity. His broader political philosophy promotes liberty, justice, and the rule of law—principles fundamentally incompatible with slavery. For him, a society that permits slavery betrays the very foundations of moral and political order.
Today, this quote remains a powerful ethical anchor in the global discourse on human rights. Whether addressing the legacies of the transatlantic slave trade or confronting modern forms of forced labor and trafficking, Montesquieu’s clarity serves as a moral compass. His words remind us that true civilization and justice cannot coexist with any form of human bondage.
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