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Full Idea
It is a mistake to suppose that the majority is necessarily right. On every new question the majority is always wrong at first.
Gist of Idea
On every new question the majority is always wrong at first
Source
Bertrand Russell (Political Ideals [1917], 3)
Book Ref
Russell,Bertrand: 'Political Ideals' [Spokesman 2007], p.52
A Reaction
Sounds like bitter experience. This is a good argument for taking time over decisions, and (topical) for a second referendum some time after the first one (if you must have a referendum).