Democracy and the State

Name: Democracy and the State
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work explores the relationship between democracy and the state, arguing that democracy is essential for the vitality of a state but should not be its governing principle. It posits that a state is fundamentally an aristocracy, structured around classes rather than individuals, and evaluates these classes based on external factors like property and birth. In contrast, a church embodies true democracy by focusing on individuals and their intrinsic qualities, disregarding social hierarchies. The text emphasizes that while democracy is crucial for the health of the state, it should remain an internal force rather than a visible governing structure. The interplay between the state and the church is highlighted, suggesting that together they form a comprehensive understanding of governance and societal organization. The work critiques the notion of pure democracy in governance, advocating for a balanced approach that recognizes the importance of both democratic principles and aristocratic structures in maintaining order and functionality within a state.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1835 · Genre: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Theology · 249 words

First lines

It has never yet been seen, or clearly announced, that democracy, as such, is no proper element in the constitution of a state. The idea of a state is undoubtedly a government [Greek: ek ton aristou] -- an aristocracy. Democracy is the healthful life-blood which circulates through the veins and arteries, which supports the system, but which ought never to appear externally, and as the mere blood itself.

What this Textopian page supports

Democracy and the State is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1835 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1835 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Theology, Essays, Political Theory
Length: 249 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

Good citation fit

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles

Genres

Political Philosophy — The book discusses the nature of democracy and its relationship to the state, focusing on political structures and ideologies.
Social Critique — It critiques the roles of democracy and aristocracy within societal structures, examining class distinctions.
Theology — The text contrasts the state with the church, exploring themes of individual merit versus class-based evaluations.
Essays — The work is presented in an essay format, reflecting on philosophical ideas rather than a narrative plot.