18th century Quote by Noah Feldman
“We like democracy because why? The pathologies of the U.S. version are so obvious in the aftermath of the latest averted crisis that we need to ask ourselves whether it’s worth it - and why electoral democracy hasn’t self-destructed before. Should Tunisians or Egyptians opt for the Chinese model, where rational autocrats may restrict rights, but no one threatens to blow up world markets in the name of an 18th-century tax protest?”
About This Quote
Source Article: Democracy and its Discontents, 2023
Democracy’s appeal is questioned when its flaws become evident; alternatives may seem safer but carry different risks.
In simple terms: Democracy has problems; alternatives have trade‑offs.
Key Takeaway
Critically assess both democracy and alternatives.
Themes
democracy
political systems
risk assessment
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting behavior
- policy reform
- international relations
- citizen engagement
Key Concepts
political theory
comparative politics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is democracy worth preserving despite flaws?
- What safeguards can improve democratic resilience?
A Different Perspective
Authoritarian models may suppress freedoms and create other dangers.
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