“One of the painfully sobering realizations that come from reading history is the utter incompetence that is possible among leaders of whole nations and empires — and the blind faith that such leaders can nevertheless inspire among the people who are enthralled by their words or their posturing.”

The occupying statist theocracy now infesting this land is a testament to the accuracy of the statement.

If only 'democracy' was understood for what it is: mob rule.

In the USA, only land holders (via their land patents) were considered to be electors for Governor and President for the very reason that they understood the danger of allowing those with no stake to vote away the property of those that do.  If tenants can vote away the property of their landlords, it only becomes a matter of time before they do. 

Remember that even communist countries consider themselves 'democracies' — just don't dare to not vote for 'The Party.'