Guides Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“The multitude . . . have not a sufficient stock of reason and knowledge to guide them. . . . It is not safe to trust to the virtue of any people.”
About This Quote
Source The Federalist Papers, No. 22, 1788
Human reason and knowledge are insufficient to trust any group’s virtue, urging caution in placing blind faith in the masses.
In simple terms: Don't rely solely on popular opinion for guidance.
Key Takeaway
Seek informed, critical judgment.
Themes
politics
philosophy
skepticism
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- voting
- policy formation
- public discourse
Key Concepts
human nature
collective decision‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should guide trust in collective decisions?
- How can societies improve collective reasoning?
A Different Perspective
May lead to cynicism or disengagement.
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