Belief Quote by Bertrand Russell
“A fanatical belief in democracy makes democratic institutions impossible.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Spirit of Democratic Revolt", 1918
Extreme devotion to democracy can paradoxically undermine the institutions it seeks to protect.
In simple terms: Blind faith in democracy can break its own system.
Key Takeaway
Balance belief with critical thinking.
Themes
politics
democracy
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- voting
- policy debates
- civic education
- activism
Key Concepts
institutional theory
critical rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect democratic institutions?
- How to balance idealism and realism?
A Different Perspective
Too much zeal may ignore practical constraints.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
