"And what sort of philosophical doctrine is thi - that numbers confer unlimited rights, that they take from some persons all rights over themselves, and vest these rights in others"

Auberon Herbert's quote challenges the philosophical underpinnings of democracy, especially the belief that mathematical superiority grants moral or ethical authority. When he questions "what sort of philosophical teaching is this", Herbert is critiquing a system where majority guideline can possibly override private rights and flexibilities. He is highlighting a concern that merely having more numbers (majority) must not naturally enhance that group with absolute authority over the minority.

The quote suggests that the principle of majority rule might result in the disintegration of private autonomy. By stating that numbers "take from some individuals all rights over themselves", Herbert is warning versus a tyranny of the bulk where personal rights and flexibilities are subordinated to the will of the bulk. This suggests that democratic systems, while ostensibly about liberty and equality, might wind up validating coercion if the rights of the minority are not protected.

Herbert's usage of the word "provide" suggests a transactional process, as if rights are products moved based on mathematical superiority. This might be seen as a criticism of practical ethics, where the best helpful for the greatest number may sometimes overlook or even sacrifice private rights. By challenging the transfer of rights to the majority, Herbert highlights the value of protecting individual sovereignty despite how popular or widespread a contrary viewpoint might be.

He raises a basic question about the balance between private rights and collective decision-making. The quote invites readers to reevaluate the assumptions underlying democratic governance and to make sure that systems of government do not simplistically equate ethical rightness with mathematical might.

In essence, Auberon Herbert's reflection works as a suggestion to secure private liberties, asserting that ethical governance needs to appreciate and protect the rights of everyone, irrespective of whether they come from the majority or minority. This viewpoint supporters for a nuanced view of democracy where individual rights stay inalienable and are not merely subject to popular will.