Democracy Quote by Franklin D Roosevelt
“The liberty of a democracy is not safe if the people tolerate the growth of private power to a point where it comes stronger than their democratic state itself. That, in its essence, is fascism - ownership of government by an individual, by a group.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: New Deal Address, 1935
Democracy weakens when private power outpaces public authority, leading to authoritarian control.
In simple terms: Democracy is threatened when private power dominates.
Key Takeaway
Guard against concentration of private power.
Themes
democracy
power
authoritarianism
citizen vigilance
Mood
concerned
urgent
Type
political
warning
analytical
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- corporate regulation
- public advocacy
Key Concepts
political theory
checks and balances
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we ensure private interests do not eclipse public good?
- What mechanisms protect democratic institutions?
A Different Perspective
Power can become entrenched despite legal safeguards.
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