No government can be long secure without a formidable…
“No government can be long secure without a formidable opposition. It reduces their supporters to that tractable number which can be managed by the joint influences of fruition and hope. It offers vengeance to the discontented, and distinction to the ambitious; and employs the energies of aspiring spirits, who otherwise may prove traitors in a division or assassins in a debate.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A strong opposition is essential for political stability; it channels dissent into constructive energy and prevents tyranny.
In simple terms: Opposition sustains democracy.
Key Takeaway
Support healthy political debate.
Themes
politics
opposition
stability
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy debates
- civil activism
Key Concepts
balance of power
democratic theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can dissent be constructive?
- What safeguards prevent opposition from destabilizing?
A Different Perspective
Opposition can become obstructionist.