Politics quote by H. L. Mencken

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The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacin
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"The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary"

- H. L. Mencken

About this Quote

This quote by H. L. Mencken is a commentary on the state of politics. He recommends that the goal of practical politics is to keep the general public in a state of fear and alarm, so that they will be more willing to be led by those in power. Mencken suggests that politicians utilize scare methods to control the public, creating imaginary hazards or "hobgoblins" to keep them in a state of fear. This permits politicians to keep control and power over the general public, as they are more likely to follow the guidance of those in power when they hesitate. Mencken's quote is a criticism of the use of worry as a political tool, and a reminder that the public should know the strategies used by those in power.

About the Author

H. L. Mencken This quote is written / told by H. L. Mencken between September 12, 1880 and January 29, 1956. He was a famous Writer from USA, the quote is categorized under the topic Politics. The author also have 123 other quotes.

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