Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
Will DurantRead
The political machine triumphs because it is a united minority acting against a divided majority.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A cohesive minority can exert power over a fragmented majority.
Will Durant's quote emphasizes the power dynamics in politics, suggesting that a smaller, united group can overpower a larger, but divided group. This highlights the importance of unity among those in the majority if they hope to challenge the influence of a united minority, often seen in political contexts where organized factions can manipulate or control the narrative and outcomes due to their cohesive strategies.
Themes
PoliticsUnityMajorityMinorityInfluence
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of unity in political action.
More from Will Durant
All quotes βThe greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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