Democracy Quote by Mark Twain
“I am a democrat only on principle, not by instinct, nobody is that. Doubtless some people say they are, but this world is grievously given to lying.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Unknown, attributed, 1900s
Claims political identity is based on principle, not instinct, suggesting authenticity versus performative affiliation.
In simple terms: Politics should be principled, not instinctual.
Align actions with stated principles.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- voting
- activism
- public discourse
- leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you test if your politics are principled?
- What challenges arise when instinct conflicts with principle?
People may still act on instinct despite principles.