Majorities are of two sorts: (1) communal majority and (2)…
“Majorities are of two sorts: (1) communal majority and (2) political majority. A political majority is changeable in its class composition. A political majority grows. A communal majority is born. The admission to a political majority is open. The door to a communal majority is closed. The politics of political majority are free to all to make and unmake. The politics of communal majority are made by its own members born in it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Political majorities can shift membership and are open to anyone, while communal majorities are fixed and exclusive.
In simple terms: Political groups are fluid; communal groups are closed.
Key Takeaway
Recognize who controls which decisions.
Themes
politics
social structure
power dynamics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
theoretical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community leadership
- social reform
- activism
- legislation
Key Concepts
majority rule
inclusion
exclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides who belongs to a community?
- How can inclusive policies be protected?
A Different Perspective
Communal majorities can resist change even when unfair.