Assuming Quote by W. E. B. Du Bois
“It is the growing custom to narrow control, concentrate power, disregard and disenfranchise the public; and assuming that certain powers by divine right of money-raising or by sheer assumption, have the power to do as they think best without consulting the wisdom of mankind.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Souls of Black Folk, 1903
It warns that concentrating power and ignoring public input leads to disenfranchisement and abuse.
In simple terms: Power without public voice harms society.
Key Takeaway
Guard against power concentration.
Themes
democracy
power
justice
Mood
concerned
serious
Type
political
social
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate governance
- community decisions
Key Concepts
elitism
social inequality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance expertise with public participation?
- What mechanisms ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
Some hierarchies are needed for efficiency.
