Country Quote by Nelson Mandela
“Democracy is based on the majority principle. This is especially true in a country such as ours where the vast majority have been systematically denied their rights. At the same time, democracy also requires that the rights of political and other minorities be safeguarded.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Democracy, Nelson Mandela, 1994
Democracy must balance majority rule with protection of minority rights, especially where past oppression exists.
In simple terms: Majority rule must protect minorities.
Key Takeaway
Ensure minority rights are safeguarded.
Themes
democracy
rights
minorities
majority rule
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- civil rights advocacy
- constitutional design
Key Concepts
social contract
political theory
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect minorities without undermining majority will?
- What mechanisms best enforce minority rights?
A Different Perspective
Balancing majority wishes with minority protection can be politically contentious.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
