Any institution which does not suppose the people good…
“Any institution which does not suppose the people good, and the magistrate corruptible, is evil.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A system that distrusts people and assumes corrupt officials is inherently unjust.
In simple terms: Distrustful institutions are evil.
Key Takeaway
Build trust and accountability.
Themes
politics
ethics
justice
governance
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- civic education
- transparency initiatives
- community organizing
Key Concepts
social contract
corruption
institutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions verify integrity?
- What mechanisms prevent corruption?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may overlook practical constraints.