Politics Quote by Jonathan Swift
““He likewise directed, “that every senator in the great council of a nation, after he had delivered his opinion, and argued in the defence of it, should be obliged to give his vote directly contrary; because if that were done, the result would infallibly terminate in the good of the public.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: "A Tale of a Tub" (or similar satire), 1704
Senators should be forced to vote opposite their expressed opinion to prevent self‑interest and ensure public good.
In simple terms: Force opposite voting to protect public interest.
Key Takeaway
Consider counter‑voting mechanisms.
Themes
politics
ethics
public good
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
satirical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative voting
- policy debates
- corporate governance
- jury deliberations
Key Concepts
democratic theory
conflict of interest
Questions to Reflect On
- Would opposite voting improve decisions?
- What safeguards prevent abuse?
A Different Perspective
May produce gridlock or irrational outcomes.
