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Branches Quote by David Mamet

“The Founders recognized that Government is quite literally a necessary evil, that there must be opposition, between its various branches, and between political parties, for these are the only ways to temper the individual's greed for power and the electorates' desires for peace by submission to…” quote by David Mamet
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“The Founders recognized that Government is quite literally a necessary evil, that there must be opposition, between its various branches, and between political parties, for these are the only ways to temper the individual's greed for power and the electorates' desires for peace by submission to coercion or blandishment.”

David Mamet

About This Quote

Source Play: Glengarry Glen Ross, 1984

Government must have checks, balances, and opposition to curb power and protect liberty.

In simple terms: Power needs limits to protect freedom.

Key Takeaway

Support balanced institutions, demand accountability.

Themes

politics power checks and balances

Mood

critical analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • legislative debates
  • public policy formation

Key Concepts

democracy institutional design political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms ensure healthy opposition without paralysis?
  • How can citizens influence balanced governance?
A Different Perspective

Opposition can become gridlock, hindering effective governance.

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