Skip to content

Ability Quote by Paul K. Chappell

“When people in a democracy are not educated in the art of living -- to strengthen their conscience, compassion, and ability to question and think critically -- they can be easily manipulated by fear and propaganda. A democracy is only as wise as its citizens, and a democracy of ignorant citizens…” quote by Paul K. Chappell
Download Open image
“When people in a democracy are not educated in the art of living -- to strengthen their conscience, compassion, and ability to question and think critically -- they can be easily manipulated by fear and propaganda. A democracy is only as wise as its citizens, and a democracy of ignorant citizens can be as dangerous as a dictatorship.”

Paul K. Chappell

About This Quote

Source Article: "The Perils of Ignorance in Democracy", 2020

Uneducated citizens are vulnerable to manipulation; a healthy democracy requires informed, critical thinkers.

In simple terms: Education protects democracy.

Key Takeaway

Promote critical thinking.

Themes

education critical thinking politics

Mood

concerned serious

Type

analytical educational

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • public forums
  • online courses
  • community workshops

Key Concepts

civic literacy media literacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we improve civic education?
  • What role does media play?
A Different Perspective

Education alone may not stop propaganda.

4.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Paul K. Chappell

Explore all 5 Paul K. Chappell quotes

More Ability quotes

Browse all 9,990 Ability quotes