On the record
Responsible government in a democracy lives always in the shadow of coming defeat; and this makes it eager to satisfy those with whose destinies it is charged.
Said by
Harold J. Laski
Source
gutenberg.orgHarold J. Laski: “Responsible government in a democracy lives always in the shadow of coming defeat; and this makes it eager to satisfy…”
Editor's note · Context
Laski notes that democratic governments are often motivated by the fear of losing power, which drives them to respond to the needs of their constituents.
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More from Harold J. Laski
Even Lincoln supported his generals in completely indefensible attacks on civilian rights.
He showed that government by discussion can be made to illuminate great principles.
The revolutionary spirit, in fact, was as much the product of the past as the very institutions it came to condemn.
What is needed is a patriot king who will destroy corruption and awaken the spirit of liberty.
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