Government Quote by Horace Walpole
“Our supreme governors, the mob.”
About This Quote
A critique of popular sovereignty, suggesting that mass rule can become tyrannical when the populace acts as an unqualified governing body.
In simple terms: Power of the people can be oppressive.
Key Takeaway
Democracy needs safeguards.
Themes
political power
democracy
tyranny
governance
mass politics
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
aphilosophical
political
maxim
When to use this quote
- elections
- public referendums
- mass protests
- policy debates
Key Concepts
authority
legitimacy
collective decision‑making
Practical Applications
- political theory analysis
- civic education
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can prevent mob rule while preserving popular sovereignty?
- How does this view compare with modern democratic theory?
A Different Perspective
While popular rule can be flawed, it also provides legitimacy and accountability absent in autocratic systems.
![“René of Anjou [(1409-80)] painted a picture of his mistress's corpse as he found it eaten by worms on having it [her tomb] openedon his return from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. This [is] another instance of the strange mixture of religion and gallantry in those ages.” quote by Horace Walpole](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aba/horace-walpole-3357_age_ren-of-anjou-1409-80-painted-a-picture-o_33917.jpg)
