Assuming Quote by Felix Morley
“It is a reality attested by all history that if a republic assumes imperial functions it will not remain a republic.”
About This Quote
Source Article: “The Danger of Imperial Overreach”, The American Political Review, 1945
When a republic takes on imperial duties, it tends to lose its republican character and become authoritarian.
In simple terms: Imperial duties erode republicanism.
Guard against power concentration.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- constitutional design
- foreign intervention
- civil liberties
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a republic maintain democracy while expanding?
- What safeguards prevent authoritarian drift?
Historical contexts vary; some republics retain democracy.