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The worst enemy of good government is not our ignorant…

“The worst enemy of good government is not our ignorant foreign voter, but our educated domestic railroad president, our prominent business man, our leading lawyer.” quote by John Jay Chapman
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“The worst enemy of good government is not our ignorant foreign voter, but our educated domestic railroad president, our prominent business man, our leading lawyer.”

John Jay Chapman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Educated elites can undermine democracy more than uninformed voters.

In simple terms: Powerful people may harm good governance.

Key Takeaway

Promote accountability for leaders.

Themes

politics elitism democracy education corruption

Mood

critical concerned

Type

political social

When to use this quote

  • voting
  • public hearings
  • media watchdogs
  • grassroots campaigns

Key Concepts

civic theory political ethics social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens hold powerful figures responsible?
  • What reforms reduce elite influence?
A Different Perspective

Elites may also contribute positively.

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