A government of five hundred country attornies and obscure…
““A government of five hundred country attornies and obscure curates is not good for twenty-four millions of men, though it were chosen by eight and forty millions; nor is it the better for being guided by a dozen of persons of quality, who have betrayed their trust in order to obtain that power.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A small, elite ruling class cannot represent a massive populace, even if chosen by a minority.
In simple terms: Elite rule fails for many.
Key Takeaway
Promote broader representation.
Themes
politics
representation
elitism
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government reform
- citizen engagement
- policy making
Key Concepts
democracy
trust
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure true representation?
- Can a small group ever act for the many?
A Different Perspective
Elitist systems can be efficient but unjust.