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In proportion as the mass of citizens who possess…

“In proportion as the mass of citizens who possess political rights increases, and the number of elected ruler’s increases, the actual power is concentrated and becomes the monopoly of a smaller and smaller group of individuals.” quote by Paul Lafargue
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““In proportion as the mass of citizens who possess political rights increases, and the number of elected ruler’s increases, the actual power is concentrated and becomes the monopoly of a smaller and smaller group of individuals.””

Paul Lafargue

About This Quote

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

When more citizens have rights, power shifts to fewer rulers, concentrating authority among a small elite.

In simple terms: More rights lead to power concentration among few.

Key Takeaway

Guard against power concentration.

Themes

politics power democracy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

theoretical political

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • policy making
  • civil rights movements
  • government reforms

Key Concepts

elite theory political centralization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does expanding suffrage affect elite power?
  • What mechanisms prevent power concentration?
A Different Perspective

Power can become entrenched despite broader suffrage.

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