Affair Quote by David Hume
“Nothing appears more surprising to those, who consider human affairs with a philosophical eye, than the easiness with which the many are governed by the few; and the implicit submission, with which men resign their own sentiments and passions to those of their rulers.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
People find it surprising how easily the masses accept governance by a few, surrendering personal feelings to authority.
In simple terms: Many accept rule by few without questioning.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and retain personal agency.
Themes
authority
conformity
politics
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- voting
- workplace hierarchy
- social movements
- education curricula
Key Concepts
social contract
philosophical skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do people submit to authority?
- What can empower individual judgment?
A Different Perspective
Blind obedience can perpetuate injustice.
