Democracy Quote by Will Durant
““But even democracy ruins itself by excess—of democracy. Its basic principle is the equal right of all to hold office and determine public policy. This is at first glance a delightful arrangement; it becomes disastrous because the people are not properly equipped by education to select the best rulers and the wisest courses (588). “As to the people they have no understanding, and only repeat what their rulers are pleased to tell them” (Protagoras, 317); to get a doctrine accepted or rejected it is only necessary to have it praised or ridiculed in a popular play (a hit, no doubt, at Aristophanes, whose comedies attacked almost every new idea). Mob-rule is a rough sea for the ship of state to ride; every wind of oratory stirs up the waters and deflects the course.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant, 1926
Democracy can degrade when citizens lack education, leading to poor choices and manipulation by leaders.
In simple terms: Uneducated masses can ruin democracy.
Key Takeaway
Improve civic education.
Themes
democracy
education
political theory
mob rule
leadership
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- public debates
- policy making
- media consumption
- civic curricula
Key Concepts
philosophy
political science
civic responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure informed voting?
- What safeguards protect against populist manipulation?
A Different Perspective
Even educated citizens can be swayed by charismatic rhetoric.
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