A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
The tyranny of a multitude is a multiplied tyranny.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A large group can exert oppressive control just as easily as a single tyrant.
Edmund Burke's quote reflects on the nature of tyranny, suggesting that while a single ruler may be viewed as a tyrant, a majority can equally impose oppression through their collective will. This highlights the danger of mob mentality and the potential for democratic systems to become harmful when majority rule disregards the rights of individuals or minorities.
Themes
TyrannyMultitudeMajorityOppressionPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about democracy, one might say, 'As Edmund Burke noted, the tyranny of a multitude is a multiplied tyranny, reminding us to protect 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.
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The hottest fires in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in times of moral crisis.
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Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
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The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
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First causes are outside the realm of science.
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