Active Quote by Theodore Roosevelt
“The death-knell of the republic had rung as soon as the active power became lodged in the hands of those who sought, not to do justice to all citizens, rich and poor alike, but to stand for one special class and for its interests as opposed to the interests of others.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address on the Conservation of Natural Resources, 1908
When power concentrates in a privileged group, it undermines justice for all citizens, favoring a single class over the common good.
In simple terms: Power in the hands of a few harms everyone.
Key Takeaway
Guard against elite dominance.
Themes
politics
justice
inequality
power
elitism
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
political
warning
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate governance
- public advocacy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
democracy
social contract
class conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- Who holds power in your community?
- How can ordinary citizens ensure fairness?
A Different Perspective
Power can be checked by strong institutions, but they may be weak.
