Skip to content

Democracy Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“Eloquence is an engine invented to manage and wield at will the fierce democracy, and, like medicine to the sick, is only employed in the paroxysms of a disordered state.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
“Eloquence is an engine invented to manage and wield at will the fierce democracy, and, like medicine to the sick, is only employed in the paroxysms of a disordered state.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays, Book III, 1588

Eloquence is a tool for controlling chaotic societies, used mainly in crises.

In simple terms: Speech shapes power, especially in disorder.

Key Takeaway

Use words wisely in turmoil.

Themes

politics communication power

Mood

critical cautious

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political debates
  • emergency briefings
  • public protests

Key Concepts

rhetoric democracy crisis management

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should eloquence be restrained?
  • How can we ensure honest discourse?
A Different Perspective

Eloquence can be misused to manipulate.

2.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,131 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More Democracy quotes

Browse all 11,220 Democracy quotes