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Democracy Quote by Robert Reich

“If you give up on politics, you're giving up on democracy. And if you give up on democracy, you're basically saying to the moneyed interests, the powerful people and institutions of society, take it all. That's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Then we give up. Then we are 100 percent plutocracy.” quote by Robert Reich
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“If you give up on politics, you're giving up on democracy. And if you give up on democracy, you're basically saying to the moneyed interests, the powerful people and institutions of society, take it all. That's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Then we give up. Then we are 100 percent plutocracy.”

Robert Reich

About This Quote

Abandoning political engagement cedes power to elites, turning democracy into plutocracy; civic participation is essential to prevent that shift.

In simple terms: Civic duty

Key Takeaway

Engage or lose democracy

Themes

politics democracy plutocracy civic responsibility power

Mood

urgent concerned determined

Type

political call‑to‑action

When to use this quote

  • voter turnout initiatives
  • civic education
  • activist campaigns

Key Concepts

political theory social contract

Practical Applications

  • policy advocacy
  • community organizing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms protect democracy from plutocracy?
  • How can individuals counteract elite dominance?
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