Cells Quote by Jacques Barzun
“Democracy, to maintain itself, must repeatedly conquer every cell and corner of the nation. How many of our public institutions and private businesses, our schools, hospitals, and domestic hearths are in reality little fascist states where freedom of speech is more rigorously excluded than vermin?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Democratic Tradition” (published 1960)
Democracy must constantly infiltrate all societal sectors, yet many institutions act like authoritarian microstates suppressing speech.
In simple terms: Democracy needs constant vigilance against authoritarian pockets.
Key Takeaway
Guard against speech suppression everywhere.
Themes
politics
freedom
authoritarianism
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate culture
- education
- media
Key Concepts
democratic theory
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens detect authoritarian trends?
- What actions protect free speech in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Complex societies make total democratic control difficult.
