I do not say that democracy has been more pernicious on…
“I do not say that democracy has been more pernicious on the whole, and in the long run, than monarchy or aristocracy. Democracy has never been and never can be so durable as aristocracy or monarchy; but while it lasts, it is more bloody than either.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Democracy can be more violent than other systems while it endures, despite its durability.
In simple terms: Democracy is bloody while it lasts.
Guard against democratic excesses.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- election reforms
- civic education
- peacebuilding
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect democratic stability?
- How can societies reduce political violence?
Violence may stem from systemic flaws, not democracy itself.