"The essence of a free government consists in an effectual control of rivalries." ― John Adams Topic(s): Government Tags: essence More From John Adams "The happiness of society is the end of government." "Great is the guilt of an unnecessary war." "Here is everything which can lay hold of the eye, ear and imagination – everything which can charm and bewitch the simple and ignorant. I wonder how Luther ever broke the spell." More In Government "Religion flourishes in greater purity, without than with the aid of Government."― James Madison "The administration of justice is the firmest pillar of government."― George Washington "Dullness in matters of government is a good sign, and not a bad one – in particular, dullness in parliamentary government is a test of its excellence, an indication of its success."― Walter Bagehot