The danger of disturbing the public tranquillity by…
“The danger of disturbing the public tranquillity by interesting too strongly the public passions, is a still more serious objection against a frequent reference of constitutional questions to the decision of the whole society.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive public passion can undermine constitutional stability; frequent referenda risk destabilizing governance.
In simple terms: Too much public emotion can harm constitutional order.
Balance public input with stable institutions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- public referenda
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies limit populist impulses?
- What safeguards protect constitutional integrity?
Public passions can be manipulated, leading to instability.