A nation is truly corrupt, when, after having by degrees lost its character and liberty, it slides from democracy into aristocracy or monarchy; this is the death of the political body by decrepitude.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A nation that loses its character and liberty and slides from democracy to aristocracy or monarchy is effectively dead.
- In plain terms
- When a country loses freedom and identity, it dies.
- What can you take from it?
- Protect liberty and national character to keep a polity alive.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What signs indicate a loss of liberty?
- How can a nation restore its character?
Another view
Some argue that strong leadership can revive a failing state.
More from Maximilien Robespierre
The general will rules in society as the private will governs each separate individual.
Permalink to quote #14 Again, it may be said, that to love justice and equality the people need no great effort of virtue; it is sufficient that they love themselves.
Permalink to quote #16 Is it to be thought unreasonable that the people, in atonement for wrongs of a century, demand the vengeance of a single day?
Permalink to quote #13
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