None of the modes by which a magistrate is appointed, popular election, the accident of the lot, or the accident of birth, affords, as far as we can perceive, much security for his being wiser than any of his neighbours.
This quote underscores the limitations of various methods used to appoint leaders, such as elections, lotteries, or hereditary titles. It suggests that none of these truly guarantees wisdom or competence beyond that of ordinary citizens. The emphasis is on the unpredictability of virtuous or wise leadership based solely on the selection process. It prompts reflection on how we can design governance systems that genuinely identify and promote capable leaders, rather than relying on chance or social status. Ultimately, it challenges us to consider what qualities truly qualify someone to lead and how we might better ensure those qualities in our chosen officials.
