Democracy Quote by Henri Frederic Amiel
“The masses are the material of democracy, but its form-that is to say, the laws which express the general reason, justice, and utility-can only be rightly shaped by wisdom, which is by no means a universal property.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Essays on Philosophy, 1855
Democracy needs wise lawmaking, not just popular will, because wisdom is not universal.
In simple terms: Wise laws are essential for democracy.
Seek wise counsel when shaping laws.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- civic education
- public debate
- policy reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure diverse wisdom in lawmaking?
- What safeguards prevent majority tyranny?
Wisdom may be limited, leading to elitist rule.