But we either believe in democracy or we not. If we do…
“But we either believe in democracy or we not. If we do, then, we must say categorically, without qualification, that no restraint from the any democratic processes, other than by the ordinary law of the land, should be allowed… If you believe in democracy, you must believe in it unconditionally. If you believe that men should be free, then, they should have the right of free association, of free speech, of free publication. Then, no law should permit those democratic processes to be set at nought.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Democracy demands unconditional support for all its processes, rejecting any legal limits on free association, speech, and publication.
In simple terms: Democracy requires full, unconditional support.
Key Takeaway
Defend all democratic freedoms without exception.
Themes
democracy
freedom
rights
Mood
political
philosophical
Type
speech
policy
When to use this quote
- legislative reform
- civil rights advocacy
- public policy
Key Concepts
unconditional support
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- Should any limits ever be placed on democratic processes?
- How to balance freedom with public safety?
A Different Perspective
Absolute freedom can clash with other societal protections.