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Poetry · Chapter
LXXIX explained
A brief reflection on the nature of mobs and majorities, suggesting that those who believe in the wisdom of majorities cannot condemn a successful riot.
What happens
A brief reflection on the nature of mobs and majorities, suggesting that those who believe in the wisdom of majorities cannot condemn a successful riot.
Key passages
“Rioting gains its end by the power of numbers. To a believer in the wisdom and goodness of majorities it is not permitted to denounce a successful mob.”
Mobs succeed through sheer numbers, and anyone who trusts the judgment of the majority has no right to criticize a mob that achieves its goal.
The chapter presents a cynical view of majority rule and mob violence.