Meaning: The quote "For when they see the people swarm into the streets, and daily wet to the skin with rain, and yet cannot persuade them to go out of the rain, they do keep themselves within their houses, seeing they cannot remedy the folly of the people" is attributed to Thomas More, a 16th-century English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman. More is best known for his work "Utopia," in which he explores the concept of an ideal society. The quote reflects More's observations on human behavior and the limitations of authority in shaping public conduct.

In this quote, More appears to be commenting on the irrational behavior of the masses and the futility that authorities face in trying to control or influence it. The imagery of people swarming into the streets and getting wet in the rain despite being unable to be persuaded to seek shelter suggests a stubborn and irrational defiance of common sense. More's mention of "they" likely refers to the authorities or those in positions of power who witness this behavior but are unable to do anything to change it.

The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the inherent difficulty of governing or controlling the actions of a populace. Despite the best intentions and efforts of those in authority, there are limits to their ability to influence the behavior of the people they govern. The phrase "they cannot remedy the folly of the people" underscores the helplessness felt by those in power when faced with the irrational or illogical actions of the masses.

More's perspective in this quote also raises questions about the nature of authority and its relationship to individual freedom and autonomy. It highlights the tension between the desire to govern for the collective good and the recognition of the limitations of control over individual choices and behaviors. The quote suggests that there are inherent complexities in the dynamics between authority and the public, and that the folly of the people cannot always be easily rectified by those in power.

Furthermore, the quote may also serve as a reflection of the broader social and political context of More's time. The 16th century was a period of significant social and religious upheaval in England, with debates over authority, governance, and individual rights shaping the political landscape. More's observations on the behavior of the people and the limitations of authority may have been influenced by the social and political dynamics of his era.

In conclusion, Thomas More's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of authority, public behavior, and the limitations of governance. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those in positions of power when confronted with the irrational or defiant actions of the masses. The quote continues to resonate as a reflection on the enduring tensions between individual autonomy and collective governance.