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The mobs of the great cities add just so much to the…

“The mobs of the great cities add just so much to the support of pure government, as sores do to the strength of the human body.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“The mobs of the great cities add just so much to the support of pure government, as sores do to the strength of the human body.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

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

Urban crowds are compared to bodily sores, suggesting that large populations can weaken pure governance like disease harms the body.

In simple terms: Cities can corrupt and weaken government.

Key Takeaway

Promote balanced, healthy civic structures.

Themes

politics urbanization corruption health society

Mood

critical thoughtful analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • city planning
  • public health
  • civic education

Key Concepts

public administration social theory urban studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the advantages of city life?
  • How can governments maintain purity amid growth?
A Different Perspective

The view may ignore benefits of urban centers such as innovation and diversity.

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