America Quote by Marion L. Starkey
““But Mather's smile faded as he thought of what other provisions the charter contained. What would the godly say when they learned that the electorate was no longer to be limited to members of the Covenant but broadened to include propertied members of every Christian sect this side of papistry? This was a revolutionary innovation, whose consequences would be incalculable. Hitherto the limitation of the privilege of voting to the elect had been the very corner-stone of theocracy. It had been a wise and human provision designed to keep the faithful in control even when, as had long ago become the case, they were heavily outnumbered by lesser men without the Covenant. God who had not designated the majority of men to salvation surely never intended for the damned to rule. Yet now, under the new charter, it very much looked as if they might.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of the American Colonies, Marion L. Starkey, 1965
The passage warns that expanding voting rights beyond a privileged religious elite threatens the original theocratic order, potentially allowing the unqualified to govern.
In simple terms: Broadening voting rights may undermine a theocratic system.
Key Takeaway
Consider the balance between inclusivity and preserving core values.
Themes
politics
theocracy
rights
power
tradition
Mood
cautious
reflective
critical
Type
historical
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- colonial governance
- constitutional debates
- religious reform
- modern democratic transitions
Key Concepts
social contract
legitimacy
authority
exclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can protect a system when expanding participation?
- How do we reconcile religious authority with democratic inclusion?
A Different Perspective
Expanding suffrage can destabilize established power structures if not carefully managed.
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