War does horrible things to human beings, to societies. It brings out the best, but most often the worst, in our human nature.
Richard EngelRead
If democracy brings an undemocratic group to power, is that a victory for democracy?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the integrity of democracy when it allows undemocratic entities to gain power.
Richard Engel's quote presents a paradox within democratic systems, where the election or rise of a group that does not adhere to democratic principles challenges the validity of the democratic process itself. It prompts readers to reflect on the implications of majority rule and the need to protect democratic values against the potential of being undermined by those who do not believe in democracy.
Themes
DemocracyUndemocraticPoliticsPowerPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of safeguarding democratic values.
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We seek peace, knowing that peace is the climate of freedom.
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And if one of our instruments breaks, it doesn't matter. _x000D_ We have fallen into the place where everything is music.
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To me... it appears that there have been differences of opinion and party differences, from the first establishment of government to the present day, and on the same question which now divides our own country; that these will continue through all future time; that every one takes his side in favor of the many, or of the few, according to his constitution, and the circumstances in which he is placed.
Thomas JeffersonRead
In other words, what is supposedly found is an invention whose inventor is unaware of his act of invention, who considers it as something that exists independently of him; the invention then becomes the basis of his world view and actions.
Paul WatzlawickRead