Democracy Quote by David Foster Wallace
““If you are bored and disgusted by politics and don't bother to vote, you are in effect voting for the entrenched Establishments of the two major parties, who please rest assured are not dumb, and who are keenly aware that it is in their interests to keep you disgusted and bored and cynical and to give you every possible reason to stay at home doing one-hitters and watching MTV on primary day. By all means stay home if you want, but don't bullshit yourself that you're not voting. In reality, there is no such thing as not voting: you either vote by voting, or you vote by staying home and tacitly doubling the value of some Diehard's vote.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Consider the Lobster, 2004
Choosing not to vote is effectively supporting the status quo, as abstention still influences outcomes by reinforcing existing power structures.
In simple terms: Not voting still counts as a vote for the establishment.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that abstention has political impact.
Themes
civic duty
political engagement
democracy
apathy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- elections
- community meetings
- public protests
- online activism
Key Concepts
political theory
behavioral economics
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you believe staying home is a valid political statement?
- How can disengaged citizens become active participants?
A Different Perspective
Abstention can be a strategic protest, but may unintentionally aid entrenched interests.
![“Vote for Donald Trump. You're going to see something and you'll be so happy, you'll be so thrilled. This [presidential] election is about every man, woman and child in our country who deserves to live in safety, prosperity and peace, so true.” quote by Donald Trump](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/18e/donald-trump-18_children_vote-for-donald-trump-you-re-going-to-se_1553.jpg)
