September 27, 2026

Nothing appears more surprising to those who consider human affairs with a philosophical eye, than the ease with which the many are governed by the few.

David Hume (1711 – 1766), Scottish political theorist, First Principles of Government (1742), in The Cynic’s Lexicon, Jonathon Green, ed. (London: 1986), p. 101

MEDITATION: How do you, with your philosophical eye, manage to explain this phenomenon—the power of a few to control the many?

COMMENTARY: Hume’s astonishment still fits. Power depends less on force than on habit. People obey because they always have, and the few exploit that obedience with remarkable ease.

How large was the population of India when it was the jewel in the crown of the British Empire? According to the 1901 census, it was approximately 2.35 million. How many British troops were stationed in India at the same time? About 74,000 (along with 157,000 Indian troops). The ratio of Indian population to British troops? 32:1.

Need more be said?