Motives Quote by Edward Payson Roe
““People will have their excitements, and a good rousing persecution used to stir things like the burning of Chicago or a Presidential election in our day.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Influence of Public Opinion,” 1885
Notes that public excitement and fervent campaigns have historically driven major events, from riots to elections
In simple terms: Strong public emotions can spark significant social and political actions
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power of collective sentiment and its impact on history
Themes
politics
media
social movements
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- campaign rallies
- social media trends
- protest movements
- election cycles
Key Concepts
mass psychology
propaganda
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical limits should guide stirring public sentiment?
- How can societies balance enthusiasm with critical thinking?
A Different Perspective
Passionate fervor can also lead to misinformation or manipulation
![“If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do. [...] The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d41/bertrand-russell-69_angry_if-an-opinion-contrary-to-your-own-makes_997355.jpg)
