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Able Quote by L. Neil Smith

“[N]o one's ever been able to show me any difference between democracy and brute force. It's just a majority ganging up on a minority with the minority giving in to avoid getting massacred.” quote by L. Neil Smith
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“[N]o one's ever been able to show me any difference between democracy and brute force. It's just a majority ganging up on a minority with the minority giving in to avoid getting massacred.”

L. Neil Smith

About This Quote

Democracy is majority rule that can become oppression when the majority forces the minority to submit.

In simple terms: Majority rule can turn into oppression.

Key Takeaway

Beware of majority tyranny.

Themes

politics power minority rights

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • activism
  • civil rights movements
  • community decisions

Key Concepts

democracy coercion majority rule

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions protect minorities from majority oppression?
  • What safeguards ensure fair majority rule?
A Different Perspective

Majority rule can also protect minorities when safeguards exist.

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