On the record
Oligarchy is the government of the few, being not even aristocracy, but an abuse of aristocracy, as despotism is the abuse of monarchy.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner explains the concept of oligarchy as a flawed form of governance that deviates from true aristocracy.
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More from Charles Sumner
It is clear that the only question of present practical interest arises from the usurpations of the Slave Power and the efforts to extend Slavery.
In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.
The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
Endeavor, for a moment, by comparison with other interests, to grapple with this sum.
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