Can not Quote by E.C. Riegel
“Money power cannot be separated from democratic power without miscarriage and ensuing frustration - political and economic. Democracy implies the sovereignty of man; and, since man cannot be sovereign without the money power, there can not be democracy under the political money system.”
About This Quote
The quote argues that economic power, embodied by money, is inseparable from political authority, and that true democratic sovereignty is impossible when financial interests dominate governance.
In simple terms: Money and politics are intertwined, undermining democracy.
Key Takeaway
Economic power dictates political outcomes.
Themes
Power dynamics
Democracy
Economic inequality
Political economy
Sovereignty
Mood
Critical
Skeptical
Urgent
Type
Political
Philosophical
When to use this quote
- Policy making
- Election financing
- Corporate lobbying
- Wealth-driven legislation
- Public protests
Key Concepts
Money as power
Democratic legitimacy
Systemic frustration
Practical Applications
- Designing campaign finance reform
- Advocating wealth taxes
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance economic influence with democratic ideals?
- What mechanisms can prevent money from overriding popular will?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that democratic institutions can check monetary influence through transparency and regulation, preserving sovereignty despite economic power.
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