Democracy Quote by E. B. White
“Democracy is the recurrent suspicion that more than half of the people are right more than half of the time.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Power of Democracy” by E. B. White, 1955
Democracy works because most people are right more often than not, but we must remain skeptical of majority rule.
In simple terms: Majorities are often right, but doubt is healthy.
Balance trust in the majority with critical thinking.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public debate
- policy making
- education curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should we question majority decisions?
- How can we improve collective judgment?
Majority opinions can be misinformed; vigilance is required.