There are some who lack confidence in the integrity and capacity of the people to govern themselves. To all who entertain such fears I will most respectfully say that I entertain none... If a man is not capable, and is not to be trusted with the government of himself, is he to be trusted with the government of others... Who, then, will govern? The answer must be, Man - for we have no angels in the shape of men, as yet, who are willing to take charge of our political affairs.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People are capable of self-governance; if they cannot govern themselves, no one else is fit to govern them.
- In plain terms
- If people can rule themselves, they should rule the country.
- What can you take from it?
- Self-governance requires trusting people to govern themselves.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who is qualified to vote?
- Is self-rule always possible?
Another view
Not all people have equal access to education or resources to govern effectively.
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