The rich, the well-born, and the able, acquire an…
“The rich, the well-born, and the able, acquire an influence among the people that will soon be too much for simple honesty and plain sense, in a house of representatives. The most illustrious of them must, therefore, be separated from the mass, and placed by themselves in a senate; this is, to all honest and useful intents, an ostracism.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He argues that the powerful should be separated from the masses to preserve honesty and common sense in governance.
In simple terms: Separate elites from the public to protect integrity.
Key Takeaway
Create a distinct, deliberative body.
Themes
politics
elitism
governance
integrity
separation of powers
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative design
- constitutional framing
- public trust
- anti‑corruption measures
Key Concepts
republicanism
checks and balances
social stratification
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a senate stay connected to the people?
- What safeguards prevent elite domination?
A Different Perspective
May create disconnect between representatives and citizens.