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Democracy is four wolves and a sheep voting on dinner.
Robert A. Heinlein
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote illustrates the potential tyranny of the majority in a democracy.

Robert A. Heinlein's quote compares democracy to a scenario where the interests of a few dominant wolves outweigh those of an individual sheep, highlighting the risk that majority rule can lead to the oppression of minority groups. In essence, it serves as a cautionary reminder of how democratic processes can be manipulated or result in decisions that favor the powerful over the vulnerable.

Themes

DemocracyTyrannyMajorityMinorityPolitics

In practice

Example use cases

During a political debate to illustrate the need for protecting minority rights.

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