The phrase “When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty” is a powerful statement that emphasizes the importance of resisting oppressive governance. It suggests that when a government enacts laws that are unjust or oppressive, it is the moral obligation of the people to rise against such tyranny.
This idea has its roots in the philosophy of natural rights, which posits that individuals have inherent rights that cannot be taken away by any government. When these rights are violated through unjust laws, citizens have the duty to challenge and resist such laws to restore justice and freedom.
Historically, this concept has been a driving force behind many revolutions and movements for civil rights. For example, the American Revolution was fueled by the belief that the British government had become tyrannical, and it was the duty of the colonists to rebel and establish a new, just government.
In essence, the phrase serves as a reminder that the legitimacy of a government is derived from its ability to protect the rights and freedoms of its people. When a government fails in this duty, it is not only the right but the responsibility of the people to take action against it.