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Sure the people are stupid: the human race is stupid. Sure…

“Sure the people are stupid: the human race is stupid. Sure Congress is an inefficient instrument of government. But the people are not stupid enough to abandon representative government for any other kind, including government by the guy who knows.” quote by Bernard DeVoto
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“Sure the people are stupid: the human race is stupid. Sure Congress is an inefficient instrument of government. But the people are not stupid enough to abandon representative government for any other kind, including government by the guy who knows.”

Bernard DeVoto

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People distrust government but still support representative democracy over alternatives, even flawed ones.

In simple terms: People prefer familiar flawed systems.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and improve existing institutions.

Themes

politics government public opinion

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • civic engagement
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

representative democracy efficiency public trust political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes people cling to familiar systems?
  • How can we reform without abandoning democracy?
A Different Perspective

Alternative systems may seem better but lack practicality.

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