Skip to content

In fundamental theory socialism and democracy are almost…

“In fundamental theory socialism and democracy are almost if not quite one and the same. They both rest at bottom upon the absolute right of the community to determine its own destiny and that of its members. Men as communities are supreme over men as individuals. Limits of wisdom and convenience…” quote by Woodrow Wilson
Download Open image
“In fundamental theory socialism and democracy are almost if not quite one and the same. They both rest at bottom upon the absolute right of the community to determine its own destiny and that of its members. Men as communities are supreme over men as individuals. Limits of wisdom and convenience to the public control there may be: limits of principle there are, upon strict analysis, none.”

Woodrow Wilson

About This Quote

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

Socialism and democracy share a core principle: community self‑determination, placing collective rights above individual ones.

In simple terms: Both value community self‑determination.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize collective decision‑making.

Themes

politics democracy collectivism

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • local governance
  • public policy
  • community projects
  • citizen assemblies

Key Concepts

social contract theory political philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can community rights coexist with personal liberty?
  • What safeguards protect minorities?
A Different Perspective

May suppress individual freedoms.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Woodrow Wilson

Explore all 492 Woodrow Wilson quotes

More Absolutes quotes

Browse all 2,016 Absolutes quotes