Meaning: In this quote, Lewis Mumford, an influential sociologist, critiques the way people in democracies tend to perceive the government as something separate from themselves. He argues that this mindset is a real handicap, implying that it hinders the effective functioning of democratic societies. Mumford also acknowledges that there are instances when the government's actions serve to confirm this perception, thus perpetuating the cycle of distrust and disconnection between the people and their governing institutions.

Mumford's observation touches on a fundamental aspect of democratic governance – the relationship between the government and the governed. In a democracy, the power and legitimacy of the government are derived from the consent and participation of the people. However, the perception of the government as a distinct entity, detached from the citizenry, can lead to a sense of alienation and disempowerment among the populace. This can have significant implications for the functioning and health of a democratic society.

One possible interpretation of Mumford's statement is that when people view the government as something separate from themselves, they may be less inclined to actively engage in the democratic process. This disengagement can manifest in various ways, such as low voter turnout, apathy towards public affairs, or a lack of trust in political institutions. As a result, the government may indeed appear to be an external force imposing its will, rather than a reflection of the will of the people.

It is important to recognize that Mumford's critique is not a blanket condemnation of democratic governance, but rather a call for a more integrated and participatory relationship between the government and the citizenry. He suggests that the perception of the government as a separate entity is a "handicap," implying that it impedes the full realization of the democratic ideal. By acknowledging the role of the government in confirming this perception, Mumford highlights the need for introspection and reform within governing institutions to bridge the gap between the government and the people.

Mumford's perspective also raises questions about the role of accountability and transparency in democratic governance. When the government is seen as distinct from the people, there may be a lack of accountability for its actions, as well as a lack of transparency in decision-making processes. This can further erode trust and exacerbate the perceived disconnect between the government and the governed.

In contemporary democracies, the issue of government-citizen relations remains a topic of ongoing debate and reform. Efforts to promote civic education, enhance transparency, and increase citizen participation in governance are aimed at addressing the very concerns raised by Mumford. By fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the government, these initiatives seek to counteract the "handicap" of viewing the government as separate from the populace.

In conclusion, Lewis Mumford's quote encapsulates a thought-provoking critique of the way people in democracies perceive the government as distinct from themselves. His observation underscores the importance of fostering a more integrated and participatory relationship between the government and the governed. By recognizing the potential drawbacks of perceiving the government as separate, societies can work towards building a more inclusive and responsive democratic governance.