Every political system is an accumulation of habits, customs, prejudices, and principles that have survived a long process of trial and error and of ceaseless response to changing circumstances. If the system works well on the whole, it is a lucky accident -- the luckiest, indeed, that can befall a society.

Summary

This quote suggests that political systems are not designed with perfection, but rather evolve over time through trial and error. It highlights how factors like habits, customs, prejudices, and principles shape these systems. The quote also implies that if a political system functions effectively, it is more a result of luck than intentional design. It emphasizes the unpredictable nature of societal progress and implies that a well-functioning political system is a fortunate outcome.

Topics