Anarchist in training

A few days ago, Edith asked me, "What are governments?"

Surprised, I tried to explain in terms she could understand. She listened carefully, then announced,

"Mommy, I don't need any more governments from you!"

I'm not sure we can credit her with perfect comprehension. She continues to ask and to announce that she doesn't need any more governments. She seems to find this vaguely funny.

I rather think she has the impression the governments are similar to peppermints.

Meanwhile someone seems to have introduced her to Candide, because she also frequently can be heard muttering something about "the best of all possible worlds," to her parents' mystification.