Republics abound in young civilians who believe that the laws make the city, that grave modifications of the policy and modes of living and employments of the population, that commerce, education and religion may be voted in or out; and that any measure, though it were absurd, may be imposed on a people if only you can get sufficient voices to make it a law. But the wise know that foolish legislation is a rope of sand which perishes in the twisting; that the State must follow and not lead the character and progress of the citizen; that the form of government which prevails is the expression of what cultivation exists in the population which permits it. The law is only a memorandum.

Summary

The quote suggests that many young civilians in republics believe that the laws have the power to shape a city. They think that through voting, they can easily change policies, living conditions, employment, commerce, education, and even religion. They also believe that any measure, no matter how absurd, can be imposed on the people as long as there are enough votes to make it a law. However, the wise understand that such legislation is weak and easily perishes. They believe that the State should be guided by the character and development of its citizens, and that the prevailing form of government reflects the level of cultivation within the population. Ultimately, the law is only a reminder or guide.