Democracy Quote by Will Durant
““Every form of government tends to perish by excess of its basic principle. Aristocracy ruins itself by limiting too narrowly the circle withing which power is confined; oligarchy ruins itself by the incautious for immediate wealth... 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... The upshot of such a democracy is tyranny or autocracy; the crowd so love flattery, it is so "hungry for honey," that at last the wiliest and most unscrupulous flatterer, calling himself the "protector of the people" rises to supreme power.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Story of Civilization, Volume III, The Age of Faith, Will Durant, 1939
Governments collapse when their core principle is taken to an extreme, leading to corruption and tyranny.
In simple terms: Excess of a system’s core idea causes its downfall.
Key Takeaway
Guard against extremes in governance.
Themes
politics
governance
corruption
democracy
tyranny
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political reform
- civic education
- media literacy
- leadership selection
Key Concepts
excess
balance
education
flattery
populism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure informed voting?
- What safeguards prevent democratic excess?
A Different Perspective
Even with equal rights, uninformed masses can elect harmful leaders.
![“Vote for Donald Trump. You're going to see something and you'll be so happy, you'll be so thrilled. This [presidential] election is about every man, woman and child in our country who deserves to live in safety, prosperity and peace, so true.” quote by Donald Trump](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/18e/donald-trump-18_children_vote-for-donald-trump-you-re-going-to-se_1553.jpg)
