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One obvious palliative of the evils of democracy in its…

“One obvious palliative of the evils of democracy in its present form would be to encourage much more publicity and initiative on the part of civil servants. They ought to have the right, and, on occasion, the duty, to frame Bills in their own names, and set forth publicly the arguments in their…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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““One obvious palliative of the evils of democracy in its present form would be to encourage much more publicity and initiative on the part of civil servants. They ought to have the right, and, on occasion, the duty, to frame Bills in their own names, and set forth publicly the arguments in their favor.””

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

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

Advocates giving civil servants the ability to propose legislation publicly to improve democracy.

In simple terms: Civil servants should draft bills and argue for them openly.

Key Takeaway

Empower bureaucrats to shape policy.

Themes

democracy transparency civil service policy making

Mood

critical optimistic

Type

political reformative

When to use this quote

  • government reform
  • public policy debates
  • citizen engagement

Key Concepts

public accountability legislative initiative bureaucratic reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • How would public bill drafting change political accountability?
  • What safeguards prevent misuse of this power?
A Different Perspective

May face resistance from elected officials protecting power.

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