One word was sufficient to gain public favour. That word…
“One word was sufficient to gain public favour. That word was Constitution, of all words the least precise, the most open to variety of interpretation, and the easiest to make popular, for it acts on the mass of the people through their hopes. Tell men that by means of a single word you will ensure them their rights, a liberty which the mass always confound with licence, a career for their ambition, and success in all their enterprises, and you will have no trouble making them listen to you. The mass once agitated, they give up everything: they listen, but do not care to comprehend. When the people really do care to comprehend, they are the first to re-establish order.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that the vague term “Constitution” is used to win public support, but it can be manipulated because people accept it without understanding its true meaning.
In simple terms: People accept vague promises like “Constitution” without questioning them.
Key Takeaway
Beware of slogans that replace critical thinking.
Themes
politics
manipulation
public opinion
language
law
Mood
skeptical
concerned
Type
cautionary
political
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- legislative debates
- public protests
- media messaging
Key Concepts
social contract
mass psychology
rhetoric
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you accept political slogans without scrutiny?
- How can we encourage deeper public engagement?
A Different Perspective
The term can also empower citizens when they seek genuine understanding.