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Civilised ages inherit the human nature which was victorious in barbarous ages, and that nature is, in many respects, not at all suited to civilised circumstances.
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Walter Bagehot
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gutenberg.orgWalter Bagehot: “Civilised ages inherit the human nature which was victorious in barbarous ages, and that nature is, in many respects…”
Editor's note · Context
Bagehot argues that the traits of human nature that prevailed in barbarous times are often ill-suited for civilized society.
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If the above reasoning be sound, compulsory constituencies are necessary, voluntary constituencies destructive; the optional transferability of votes is not a salutary aid, but a ruinous innovation.
Perhaps such powers as these are what a wise man would most seek to exercise and least fear to possess.
The Parliament, the laws, the press were human institutions; but the Monarchy was a Divine institution.
No doubt this momentary gain is bought at a ruinous after-cost.
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