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Democracy Quote by Henrik Ibsen

“The majority is never right. Never, I tell you! That's one of these lies in society that no free and intelligent man can help rebelling against. Who are the people that make up the biggest proportion of the population -- the intelligent ones or the fools?” quote by Henrik Ibsen
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“The majority is never right. Never, I tell you! That's one of these lies in society that no free and intelligent man can help rebelling against. Who are the people that make up the biggest proportion of the population -- the intelligent ones or the fools?”

Henrik Ibsen

About This Quote

It argues that majority opinion is unreliable, urging critical individuals to question societal norms and recognize that intelligence often opposes popular consensus.

In simple terms: Majority can be misleading.

Key Takeaway

Intelligent dissent challenges mass opinion.

Themes

majority truth critical thinking society rebellion

Mood

skepticism defiance inquisitiveness

Type

political philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • education curricula
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

social conformity intelligence vs. herd

Practical Applications

  • critical thinking courses
  • public policy critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does majority consensus become trustworthy?
  • What mechanisms protect against collective error?
A Different Perspective

Some argue that collective wisdom can correct individual bias, suggesting majority views sometimes reflect broader experiential knowledge.

2.8 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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