The error arises from the learned jurists deceiving themselves and others, by asserting that government is not what it really is, one set of men banded together to oppress another set of men, but, as shown by science, is the representation of the citizens in their collective capacity.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jurists falsely claim government represents citizens; Tolstoy says it is merely men banded to oppress others.
- In plain terms
- Experts lie about government representing people; it is actually rulers oppressing subjects.
- What can you take from it?
- See government as an instrument of oppression rather than representation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is all government inherently oppressive?
- How can citizens verify representation?
Another view
This view dismisses democratic mechanisms that allow genuine citizen participation.
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