Kings govern by means of popular assemblies only when they cannot do without them.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Kings use assemblies only when forced to, not out of democratic principle.
- In plain terms
- Rulers only listen to the people when they have to.
- What can you take from it?
- Constitutions often reflect necessity, not choice.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do leaders yield power?
- Is consent voluntary?
Another view
Some rulers may genuinely value assembly beyond necessity.
More from Charles James Fox
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