Buddhism Quote by John Hospers
““The tyranny of a majority can be just as cruel as the tyranny of a single dictator, depending on the degree of enlightenment or stupidity of the voting majority.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Individualism, a Reader’s Guide to Liberalism, 1970
Majority rule can be oppressive if the electorate lacks wisdom.
In simple terms: Democracy isn’t always fair.
Cultivate informed, critical voting.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- civic education
- social movements
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How to improve voter education?
- What safeguards prevent tyranny of the majority?
Minorities can still be protected by institutions.