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September 4, 2012
William Livingston, "Of Party Divisions," (1753)
FROM the Moment that Men give themselves wholly up to a Party, they abandon their Reason, and are led Captive by their Passions.The Cause they espouse, presents such bewitching Charms, as dazzle the judgment; and the Side they oppose, such imaginary Deformity, that no Opposition appears too violent; nor any Arts to blacken and ruin it, incapable of a specious Varnish. They follow their Leaders with an implicit Faith, and, like a Company of Dragoons, obey the Word of Command without Hesitation. -- William Livingston, "Of Party Divisions," Independent Reflector (1753)
Posted by gerardvanderleun at September 4, 2012 3:48 PM. This is an entry on the sideblog of American Digest: Check it out.
Your Say
George Washington was an enthusiastic believer in this philosophy for a time, and Livingston hits several bullseyes. But the reality is, the alternative is very much worse. See "Law of Morons".
In spite of the dog and pony show, Washington is very much more in agreement with itself than otherwise. Look at what that has gotten us.
Posted by: james wilson at September 4, 2012 9:07 AM
Look at what that has gotten us.
That's what happens when you have just one party, only concerned with getting re-elected.
Posted by: Peccable at September 4, 2012 2:32 PM