John Selden: 'A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat.'

A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat.

John Selden's quote, "A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat," encapsulates the essence of monarchy and governance. On the surface, this quote suggests that kingship is a human invention intended to ensure peace and order. However, delving deeper into this idea, it becomes evident that there is an underlying philosophical concept worth exploring.At its core, this quote highlights the pragmatic nature of human society and the need for a centralized authority to maintain stability. Like the selection of a designated individual to buy meat for a family, the appointment of a king serves the purpose of dividing responsibilities, creating efficiency, and avoiding conflicts. In this analogy, the king represents the figurehead entrusted with the task of making decisions on behalf of the people, ensuring the smooth functioning of the state.Yet, beyond the immediate reasoning lies a more profound philosophical concept - the social contract theory. This theory posits that people voluntarily surrender some of their individual freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for protection and the establishment of societal order. Selden's quote hints at this concept, suggesting that kingship is a result of an implicit agreement among individuals in society, done for their own sake and tranquility.Drawing a parallel between purchasing meat and the institution of a king seems peculiar at first glance, but it highlights the underlying power dynamics at play in governance. Just as the appointment of a purchaser implies a delegation of responsibilities within the family structure, the appointment of a king signifies decentralization of power within society. It allows for a division of labor, where the king assumes specific duties, while the rest of society can focus on their respective pursuits, thereby enhancing overall efficiency.However, it is important to critically examine this notion of kingship from a modern perspective. In contemporary times, democracy and the principles of equality and individual rights have gained prominence. Unlike the familial structure, where authority is often inherited and unquestioned, modern governance emphasizes the consent and participation of the governed.The idea of a king as the sole purchaser of meat may seem outdated, just as the concept of an absolute monarchy appears archaic in today's world. Instead, democratic systems have evolved, where power is vested in the hands of elected representatives, chosen through a process of consensus and popular vote. The modern equivalent of the duties assigned to a king would be shared among various governmental bodies, accountable to the people.In conclusion, John Selden's quote evokes a reflection on the origins and purpose of monarchy, as well as its relevance in contemporary society. While the analogy of buying meat may appear simplistic at first, it introduces a philosophical concept of the social contract theory, wherein individuals willingly surrender some autonomy for the sake of peace and order. However, the evolution of democracy and egalitarian principles has challenged the traditional notion of kingship, emphasizing shared responsibility and equal participation in the governance process. Ultimately, Selden's quote prompts us to question the nature of authority and its role in human societies throughout history.