Democracy Quote by Lord Acton (John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton
““If the distribution of power among the several parts of the State is the most efficient restraint on monarchy, the distribution of power among several States is the best check on democracy..””
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on History and Politics, 1885
Argues that distributing power among states limits democratic excesses as much as dividing power within a state limits monarchy.
In simple terms: Power sharing curbs both monarchy and democracy.
Promote balanced governance structures.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative reforms
- international treaties
- governmental restructuring
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent power concentration?
- How do cultural contexts affect power distribution?
May underestimate the role of civil society.