Democracy is direct self-government, over all the people, for all the people, by all the people

Democracy is direct self-government, over all the people, for all the people, by all the people

The quote "Democracy is direct self-government, over all the people, for all the people, by all the people" is often attributed to Theodore Parker, a prominent American theologian and abolitionist in the 19th century. Parker was a strong advocate for social justice and equality, and his beliefs in the power of democracy to bring about positive change in society were central to his work.

Parker believed that true democracy was not just about having a system of government where people could vote for their leaders, but rather a form of self-government where all individuals had a voice in shaping the policies and decisions that affected their lives. He believed that democracy should be inclusive and accessible to all people, regardless of their race, gender, or social status.

For Parker, democracy was not just a political system, but a moral imperative. He believed that it was the duty of every citizen to actively participate in the democratic process and work towards creating a more just and equitable society. He saw democracy as a means of empowering individuals to take control of their own destinies and create a better future for themselves and their communities.

Parker's views on democracy were deeply influenced by his commitment to social reform and his belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. He saw democracy as a way to ensure that all people had a voice in shaping their own destinies and that no one should be excluded from the political process.