Legislative Quote by Thomas Paine
““on every occasion as at first, when their number was small, their habitations near, and the public concerns few and trifling. This will point out the convenience of their consenting to leave the legislative part to be managed by a select number chosen from the whole body, who are supposed to have the same concerns at stake which those have who appointed them, and who will act in the same manner as””
About This Quote
Source Pamphlet: Common Sense, Thomas Paine, 1776
Small groups should delegate legislative duties to a representative minority to manage public concerns efficiently.
In simple terms: Let representatives handle legislation for the many.
Key Takeaway
Support representative governance for efficient decision‑making.
Themes
government
representation
efficiency
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- local councils
- national legislatures
- community meetings
Key Concepts
political theory
democracy
Questions to Reflect On
- Who truly represents your interests?
- How can accountability be ensured?
A Different Perspective
Representative bodies may become detached from the populace.
![“It is one thing to be subordinate to the laws, and another [for the Executive] to be dependent on the legislative body. The first comports with, the last violates, the fundamental principles of good government; and, whatever may be the forms of the Constitution, unites all power in the same hands.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be4/alexander-hamilton-619_body_it-is-one-thing-to-be-subordinate-to-the_129196.jpg)