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If we would leave parties to the politicians, and would…

“If we would leave parties to the politicians, and would vote not for the party, not even for men, but for the city, and the State, and the nation, we should rule parties, and cities, and States, and nation.” quote by Lincoln Steffens
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“If we would leave parties to the politicians, and would vote not for the party, not even for men, but for the city, and the State, and the nation, we should rule parties, and cities, and States, and nation.”

Lincoln Steffens

About This Quote

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

If citizens vote for broader interests rather than parties or individuals, governance aligns with collective good, reducing partisan dominance.

In simple terms: Vote for city, state, nation, not parties or men.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize collective over individual interests.

Themes

politics citizenship collective good

Mood

reflective critical optimistic

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • community meetings
  • policy advocacy
  • civic education

Key Concepts

democracy public interest political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can voters assess city or national interests?
  • What mechanisms ensure leaders represent collective goals?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual accountability and nuanced policy differences.

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