Neither should we forget the mean, which at the present…
“Neither should we forget the mean, which at the present day is lost sight of in perverted forms of government; for many practices which appear to be democratical are the ruin of democracies, . . Those who think that all virtue is to be found in their own party principles push matters to extremes; they do not consider that disproportion destroys a state.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Democratic ideals can be corrupted when parties prioritize virtue over state stability, leading to excess and decay.
In simple terms: Political extremes harm democracy.
Key Takeaway
Balance principle with practicality.
Themes
politics
democracy
virtue
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- party leadership
- civic education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
political theory
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues should guide parties?
- How can balance be maintained?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may ignore pragmatic governance.