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Full Idea
The claim of the state is only absolutely paramount on the supposition that in its commands and prohibitions it takes account of all the claims that arise out of human fellowship.
Gist of Idea
States only have full authority if they heed the claims of human fellowship
Source
T.H. Green (Lectures on the Principles of Political Obligation [1882], §146), quoted by John H. Muirhead - The Service of the State III
Book Ref
Muirhead,John H.: 'The Service of the State: T.H. Green' [John Murray 2021], p.72
A Reaction
He rejects the idea of the general will in ordinary political activity, so it is not clear how this condition could ever be met in practice. Hideous governments just pay lip service to 'human fellowship'. How could you tell whether they believe it?
Related Idea
Idea 23045 Politics is compromises, which seem supported by a social contract, but express the will of no one [Green,TH]