Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author expresses a personal preference for the energetic atmosphere of democracy.
In plain terms
I enjoy the lively activity that comes with democracy.
What can you take from it?
Democratic processes generate energy and engagement.

Where it applies

  • campaigning
  • civic life

Putting it to work

  • embrace public participation
  • value democratic energy

Questions to consider

  • Is noise a sign of a healthy democracy?
  • What does democratic energy look like?

Another view

Noise can imply chaos rather than constructive engagement.

More from James Buchanan

  1. I have no regret for any public act of my life, and history will vindicate my memory.

    Permalink to quote #11

  2. Prevent the American people from crossing the Rocky Mountains? You might as well command Niagara not to flow. We must fulfill our destiny.

    Permalink to quote #13

  3. Abstract propositions should never be discussed by a legislative body.

    Permalink to quote #10

Related quotes

  1. As free citizens in a political democracy, we have a responsibility to be interested and involved in the affairs of the human community, be it at the local or …

    Paul WellstonePaul Wellstone quote #3

  2. The 'democracy gap' in our politics and elections spells a deep sense of powerlessness by people who drop out, do not vote, or listlessly vote for the 'least w…

    Ralph NaderRalph Nader quote #3

  3. Voting is sexy. I think everybody should do it, and I want everybody to do it with me.

    Jake GyllenhaalJake Gyllenhaal quote #8