Moreover, they have the power of
electing the magistrates and calling them to account; their
ambition, if they have any, is thus satisfied; and in some
democracies, although they do not all share in the appointment of
offices, except through representatives elected in turn out of the
whole people, as at Mantinea; yet, if they have the power of
deliberating, the many are contented. Even this form of government may
be regarded as a democracy, and was such at Mantinea. Hence it is both
expedient and customary in the aforementioned type of democracy that
all should elect to offices, and conduct scrutinies, and sit in the
law-courts, but that the great offices should be filled up by election
and from persons having a qualification; the greater requiring a
greater qualification, or, if there be no offices for which a
qualification is required, then those who are marked out by special
ability should be appointed. Under such a form of government the
citizens are sure to be governed well (for the offices will always
be held by the best persons; the people are willing enough to elect
them and are not jealous of the good). The good and the notables
will then be satisfied, for they will not be governed by men who are
their inferiors, and the persons elected will rule justly, because
others will call them to account.
Pages:
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270