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About this quote

What does it mean?
The people are the only safe keepers of ultimate power. If they lack wisdom, educate them rather than stripping their authority.
In plain terms
Trust the people with power, but teach them how to use it wisely.
What can you take from it?
Education is the remedy for an unenlightened populace, not removing their vote.

Where it applies

  • constitutional debates
  • voting rights discussions
  • civic education reforms

Putting it to work

  • civics curriculum
  • public literacy campaigns
  • voter education

Questions to consider

  • How do you educate without indoctrinating?
  • Who decides what enlightenment looks like?

Another view

Educating the public takes time and resources that may not be immediately available.

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