Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes, our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead. Tradition refuses to submit to that arrogant oligarchy who merely happen to be walking around.

Summary

This quote, often attributed to G.K. Chesterton, highlights the value of tradition in society. It suggests that tradition grants importance and respect to the knowledge and experiences of previous generations, viewing them as an essential part of a democratic society. By emphasizing the "democracy of the dead," the quote criticizes the notion that modern individuals, being alive, hold superior authority over the wisdom and customs passed down through time. Tradition, in this context, represents a counterbalance to the arrogance of individuals who dismiss the significance of the past.