A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
In a democracy, the majority of the citizens is capable of exercising the most cruel oppressions upon the minority.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy can lead to the tyranny of the majority over the minority.
This quote by Edmund Burke highlights the potential danger inherent in democratic systems, where the will of the majority can overpower and unjustly oppress minority groups. It serves as a cautionary reminder that democracy, while promoting equality and representation, can sometimes facilitate the very oppression it seeks to avoid if the rights of minorities are not protected.
Themes
DemocracyMajorityMinorityOppressionFreedom
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on political philosophy, this quote can be used to discuss the balance between majority rule and minority rights.
More from Edmund Burke
All quotes βTo read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.
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Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
Edmund BurkeRead
The hottest fires in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in times of moral crisis.
Edmund BurkeRead
Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
Edmund BurkeRead
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
Edmund BurkeRead
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