Assuming Quote by Herbert Croly
“Democracy must stand or fall on a platform of possible human perfectibility. If human nature cannot be improved by institutions, democracy is at best a more than usually safe form of political organization . . . . But if it is to work better as well as merely longer, it must have some leavening effect on human nature; and the sincere democrat is obliged to assume the power of the leaven. [Progressive]”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Promise of American Democracy, 1909
Democracy should foster human improvement; institutions must actively shape human nature, not just protect it.
In simple terms: Democracy must improve people.
Key Takeaway
Promote progressive reforms.
Themes
democracy
human perfectibility
political theory
social reform
Mood
optimistic
inspirational
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- civic education
- social activism
- legislative reform
Key Concepts
progressivism
institutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can democracy leaven human nature?
- What reforms best enhance perfectibility?
A Different Perspective
Assuming institutions can change nature may be optimistic.
