Political Quotes

Harold J. Laski: The customs of men may represent the thwarting of the impulses of the many at the expense of the few not less easily…

On the record
The customs of men may represent the thwarting of the impulses of the many at the expense of the few not less easily than they may embody a general desire; and it is surely a mistaken usage to dignify as natural whatever may happen to have occurred.
Said by
Harold J. Laski

Editor's note · Context

Laski critiques the notion that customs are inherently natural, arguing they often reflect the interests of a few over the many.

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Man is a one among many obstinately refusing reduction to unity.

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In a time of crisis, particularly, when the things we hold most dear are threatened, we shall find the desire to throw overboard the habits of tolerance, almost irresistible.

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How could it seek security where it defied the desires of the vast majority of its subjects?

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