Commonwealth Quote by Margery Wilson
“If Democracy should fail, it would be because we had been so lacking in self-discipline that our personal problems had taken all our substance and energies, leaving us nothing of value to contribute to the commonwealth.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The American Journal of Political Thought, 1935, discussion on democratic decay
A warning that democracy collapses when citizens neglect self‑discipline, allowing personal problems to consume their capacity to contribute to society.
In simple terms: Self‑discipline is essential for a healthy democracy.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize personal responsibility.
Themes
politics
self‑discipline
societal health
Mood
thoughtful
serious
inspirational
Type
political
ethical
reflective
When to use this quote
- public policy
- community service
- personal development
Key Concepts
civic duty
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster collective discipline?
- What structures support individual responsibility?
A Different Perspective
Self‑discipline alone may not fix systemic issues.
![“Brian Mulroney, myself, [and] Rajiv Gandhi; I think that was the real core [of the Commonwealth ]. That was the engine room, I reckon.” quote by Bob Hawke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/96c/bob-hawke-7891_brian_brian-mulroney-myself-and-rajiv-gandhi-i_19423.jpg)
