Walter Bagehot: “Parliamentary government is, in its essence, a sectarian government…”

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Parliamentary government is, in its essence, a sectarian government, and is possible only when sects are cohesive.

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Walter Bagehot

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Bagehot characterizes Parliamentary government as inherently sectarian, reliant on cohesive groups.

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They are solely concerned with his attractiveness as a candidate; they need not regard his efficiency as a ruler.

But, above all things, they were frightened of 'the world;' the spectacle of nature filled them with awe and dread.

It is absurd to choose by contested party election an impartial chooser of Ministers.

The moderate people of every party must combine to support the Government which, on the whole, suits every party best.

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Walter Bagehot: “Parliamentary government is, in its essence, a sectarian government, and is possible only when sects are cohesive.”