"We stand a better chance with aristocracy, whether hereditary or elective, than with monarchy"
- Ezra Stiles
About this Quote
This quote by Ezra Stiles recommends that he believes that a form of government based on upper class is preferable to a monarchy. He indicates that either a hereditary aristocracy, where power is passed down through household lines, or an optional aristocracy, where power is gotten through election, is a much better type of federal government than a monarchy. Stiles most likely believes that an upper class is more reasonable and just than a monarchy, as it allows for more people to have a say in the federal government and its choices. He might likewise think that an aristocracy is more stable than a monarchy, as it is less most likely to be overthrown by a single leader. Ultimately, Stiles' quote suggests that he believes an aristocracy is a better kind of federal government than a monarchy.
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