Hence it is that such democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulence and contention, have ever been found incompatible with personal security or the rights of property, and have in general been as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths.

~ James Madison

James Madison Government Republic Versus Democracy U S Constitution

It does not require much historical knowledge (though it may require a certain historical perspective) to see that many, if not all, of the aristocratic elements of the Constitution (as in other countries) have gradually disappeared or were washed away during the past two hundred years, while the monarchic powers of the presidency and the democratic extent of majority rule became more and more overwhelming.

~ John Lukacs

John Lukacs Democracy Politics Politics Of The United States U S Constitution U S Presidents