When a ruler uses his authority for purposes just the reverse of those for which it was delegated to him, when he evidently encroaches on the natural and constitutional rights of the subject, when he tramples on those laws which were made, at once to limit his power, and defend the people, in such cases they are not obliged to obey him. They are guilty of impiety against God; and of injustice to themselves, and the community of which they are members if they do (Jason Haven, 1769).