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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).
21517 | Individuals need creativity, reverence for others, and self-respect [Russell] |
21522 | Democracy is inadequate without a great deal of devolution [Russell] |
21523 | We would not want UK affairs to be settled by a world parliament [Russell] |
21521 | Anarchy does not maximise liberty [Russell] |
21495 | Theoretical and practical politics are both concerned with the best lives for individuals [Russell] |
21518 | Men unite in pursuit of material things, and idealise greed as part of group loyalty [Russell] |
21519 | We need security and liberty, and then encouragement of creativity [Russell] |
21520 | That our heaven is a dull place reflects the misery of excessive work in life [Russell] |
21524 | The right to own land gives a legal right to a permanent income [Russell] |
21525 | When the state is the only employer, there is no refuge from the prejudices of other people [Russell] |
21528 | Groups should be autonomous, with a neutral authority as arbitrator [Russell] |
21526 | Unfortunately ordinary voters can't detect insincerity [Russell] |
21527 | On every new question the majority is always wrong at first [Russell] |