Cases Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“After all, the practical reason why, when the power is once in the hands of the people, a majority are permitted, and for a long period continue, to rule is not because they are most likely to be in the right, nor because this seems fairest to the minority, but because they are physically the strongest. But a government in which the majority rule in all cases cannot be based on justice, even as far as men understand it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Civil Disobedience, 1849
The majority rules not because they are right or fair, but because they possess physical power; true justice cannot rely solely on majority rule.
In simple terms: Majority rule is about power, not fairness.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of majority power.
Themes
politics
justice
power
governance
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- legislative decisions
- public policy debates
- community meetings
Key Concepts
Social contract
majoritarianism
ethical limits
Questions to Reflect On
- How can minorities protect their rights?
- What safeguards ensure fair governance?
A Different Perspective
Majority can still be unjust if unchecked.
![“[As in the case of] alcohol prohibition, illegality has driven organized crime, sent countless people to jail, and killed many thousands. Repression does not work.” quote by Sam Branson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/212/sam-branson-36458_alcohol_as-in-the-case-of-alcohol-prohibition-il_8703.jpg)
