A pure democracy can admit no cure for the mischiefs of…
“A pure democracy can admit no cure for the mischiefs of faction. A common passion or interest will be felt by a majority, and there is nothing to check the inducements to sacrifice the weaker party. Hence it is, that democracies have ever been found incompatible with personal security or the rights of property; and have, in general, been as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Democracies struggle to protect minorities because majority passions can dominate, leading to instability and threats to rights.
In simple terms: Majorities can threaten minority rights in a democracy.
Key Takeaway
Guard against majority tyranny.
Themes
politics
democracy
minority rights
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
theoretical
historical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- constitutional design
- public policy
Key Concepts
faction
majority rule
political stability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions limit factionalism?
- What safeguards protect minorities?
A Different Perspective
Pure democracy may not ensure personal security or property rights.