“I believe in political equality. But there are two opposite reasons for being a democrat. You may think all men so good that they deserve a share in the government of the commonwealth, and so wise that the commonwealth needs their advice. That is, in my opinion, the false, romantic doctrine of democracy. On the other hand, you may believe fallen men to be so wicked that not one of them can be trusted with any responsible power over his fellows. That I believe to be the true ground of democracy.”
C. S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1949/1965, page 36.
Question for discussion: In a world in which democracy seems to be in retreat, does Lewis’s point of view seem wise to you or out of touch with reality? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Related posts:
Pastor Note #112: America in Theological Perspective–a July 4th Sermon
Quote of Note #224: Theocracy–the Worst Form of Government
Pastor Note #129: How Would Christian Nationalist Government Work?
Bible Note #64: Zechariah 7:9-10–A Rightly Ordered Society in God’s Eyes
Pastor Note #138: The Way of Jesus: Selfless Service OR Coercion and Domination?
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