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About this quote

What does it mean?
Seeing the House of Lords in person reveals its flaws, curing admiration for it.
In plain terms
Direct observation of an institution often dispels positive opinions about it.
What can you take from it?
Experience can challenge idealized views of powerful systems.

Where it applies

  • evaluating political systems
  • debating governance structures

Putting it to work

  • visit government buildings
  • observe legislative sessions

Questions to consider

  • What do you admire without seeing closely?
  • How does proximity change your opinion?

Another view

Some institutions may be designed to look better from afar.

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