II. Power as Privilege: The Maxim Privilegium meretur amittere, qui potestate sibi concessa abutitur

Abstract

Summary We trace the transmission and influence of a late-antique maxim, “Privilegium meretur amittere, qui potestate sibi concessa abutitur” [PMA] down to the early modern period. Appearing first in a decretal of Pope Simplicius, it spread not only through the canon law but also into a variety of other texts, for example theological and political treatises. PMA deserves attention alongside the more famous “Quod omnes tangit, ab omnibus approbetur” through its contribution to the idea of limited government.