It is a besetting vice of democracies to substitute public…
“It is a besetting vice of democracies to substitute public opinion for law. This is the usual form in which masses of men exhibit their tyranny.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Democracies replace law with public opinion, leading to tyranny of the majority.
In simple terms: Majority opinion can become tyrannical.
Key Takeaway
Balance opinion with law.
Themes
democracy
law
tyranny
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- public debate
- media influence
- voting systems
Key Concepts
Majority rule
civil rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How protect protect minority rights against majority rule?
- What safeguards ensure law over opinion?
A Different Perspective
Public opinion is volatile.