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Commit Quote by John Adams

“Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.” quote by John Adams
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“Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.”

John Adams

About This Quote

Source Letter: Private Correspondence, 1798

Democracy tends to self‑destruct, exhausting resources and ending in violence.

In simple terms: Democracy often collapses on its own.

Key Takeaway

Beware of democracy’s fragility.

Themes

politics history governance

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political analysis
  • civic education
  • policy making
  • historical study

Key Concepts

cycle self‑destruction power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent democratic decay?
  • How can societies renew democratic vigor?
A Different Perspective

Democracy can also produce stability and progress.

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