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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Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes, our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead. Tradition refuses to submit to that arrogant oligarchy who merely happen to be walking around.
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