MAKES RIGHT Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "might makes right" is a moral and ethical concept that posits that power and force determine what is right or justifiable, often regardless of underlying principles or individual rights. It suggests that the stronger or more dominant party has the authority and prerogative to enforce their will and impose their own sense of right without being challenged or questioned.
In practice, "might makes right" implies that the interests and desires of those in positions of power, whether individuals, groups, or nations, take precedence over fairness, justice, or ethical considerations. This view rejects the idea of inherent rights or moral standards that apply to all individuals equally, arguing instead that might and raw power create the rules by which people should live, and by extension, justify actions or decisions that promote their own advantage or self-interest.
The phrase is often used to criticize oppressive regimes, authoritarian governments, or individuals who prioritize their own self-interest over the well-being and rights of others. It highlights the dangers of inequality and the abuse of power, suggesting that those with power may exploit those without to maintain control and reinforce their position. By emphasizing the relationship between power and morality, "might makes right" serves as a call to question and challenge systems that perpetuate injustice, while advocating for a more equitable and just society.
Common Misspellings for MAKES RIGHT
- make-wright
- maks right
- makse right
- nakes right
- kakes right
- jakes right
- mzkes right
- mskes right
- mwkes right
- mqkes right
- majes right
- mames right
- males right
- maoes right
- maies right
- makws right
- makss right
- makds right
- makrs right
- mak4s right
Etymology of MAKES RIGHT
The phrase might makes right is a proverb that suggests that power, strength, or force justifies and determines what is morally or ethically right. The etymology of this phrase can be traced back to ancient times, specifically to the ancient Greek philosopher Thrasymachus. In his work The Republic written by Plato, Thrasymachus argued that justice is the advantage of the stronger, implying that those in power dictate what is right and just. This concept has since been expressed in various forms throughout history and literature, leading to the common expression might makes right.
Idioms with the word MAKES RIGHT
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Might makes right
The idiom "Might makes right" means that the powerful or strong have the authority or privilege to determine what is right or just, often at the expense of the weak or less powerful. It suggests that those who are physically or socially dominant can impose their own will or beliefs without considering the principles of fairness, morality, or justice.
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