The common supposition is that democratic government depends on “free trade in ideas”; that parties, which are the bulwark of the government, are formed around clusters of ideas called programs or platforms. The educated voter is expected to study issues, so that he may choose programs rather than men. And it is clear that if he continues to develop his political ideas he is but a step away from intellectualizing politics.

Where in all this is the menace? It lies in the possibility that, for him and others, ideas will come to seem more important than public service and social peace.

—Jacques Barzun, The House of Intellect, p. 146, emphasis mine