The greater part of the governments on earth may be termed monarchical aristocracies, or hereditary dominions independent of the people.

The quote "The greater part of the governments on earth may be termed monarchical aristocracies, or hereditary dominions independent of the people." by Ezra Stiles critiques the nature of many governments around the world during his time, specifically pointing out that most were forms of monarchical aristocracies or hereditary dominions. Stiles argues that in these systems, power is passed down through family lines or elite classes, rather than being determined by the people. This suggests that the majority of governments are disconnected from the public and function in a way that does not reflect the will or interests of the people they govern.

Stiles is making a distinction between democratic systems, where the people have a voice in the selection of their rulers, and monarchies or aristocracies, where power is inherited and passed down through a few elite families. His quote reflects the belief that in such hereditary dominions, rulers are often independent of the people and do not serve the interests of the broader society. This critique aligns with Enlightenment ideals, which emphasized the importance of popular sovereignty and the idea that government should be accountable to the people.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Ezra Stiles’ own experiences as a theologian, educator, and president of Yale College. Stiles, who lived in the 18th century, was deeply influenced by the intellectual currents of the American Revolution and the push for democracy. His statement reflects the prevailing concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of a few, and it contrasts the democratic ideals emerging in America with the monarchical systems that dominated much of the world at the time.

In essence, Stiles’ quote serves as a critique of hereditary rule and aristocratic systems, arguing that these forms of governance are inherently undemocratic and disconnected from the people. He highlights the importance of popular sovereignty and challenges the legitimacy of any government that is not accountable to the people, reflecting the revolutionary spirit of the era and the desire for a more just and egalitarian society.