Can not Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“But government in which the majority rule in all cases can not be based on justice, even as far as men understand it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Civil Disobedience, 1849
Justice cannot be grounded when majority rule overrides minority rights.
In simple terms: Majority rule may conflict with true justice.
Protect minority rights against unchecked majority.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political debates
- legal reforms
- community decisions
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance majority will with minority protection?
- When does majority rule become unjust?
Majority rule can also reflect collective wisdom; not always unjust.