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A free society is a society where it is safe to be unpopular.
Adlai Stevenson Ii
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Interpretation

What this quote means

A truly free society allows individuals the freedom to express unpopular opinions without fear of retribution.

This quote by Adlai Stevenson II underscores the importance of freedom of expression in a democratic society. It suggests that the hallmark of a truly free society is not just the ability to agree with popular opinions, but the safety and security to hold and express views that may be contrary to the majority. This reflects the essence of tolerance and respect for diverse thoughts, which are vital for a vibrant democracy.

Themes

Free SocietyUnpopularFreedomExpressionDemocracy

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a discussion about the importance of civil liberties during a political rally.

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