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About this quote

What does it mean?
Democracy works because humans can be just, but it is needed because humans are also prone to injustice.
In plain terms
People can be fair, but they can also be unfair, so we need democracy to keep balance.
What can you take from it?
Democracy balances human potential for good and bad.

Where it applies

  • governance
  • social organization
  • civic life

Putting it to work

  • supporting democratic institutions
  • checking power
  • promoting fairness

Questions to consider

  • Why do we need democracy?
  • How do you balance justice and injustice?

Another view

Democracy does not guarantee justice in all circumstances.

More from Reinhold Niebuhr

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