Meaning: The quote "Every government is a parliament of whores. The trouble is, in a democracy, the whores are us" by P. O'Rourke, a well-known American political satirist and journalist, is a thought-provoking and humorous commentary on the nature of government and democracy. O'Rourke's use of the word "whores" in this context is not meant to be taken in a literal sense, but rather as a metaphor for the individuals involved in the political process and the compromises and moral dilemmas they often face.

In this quote, O'Rourke is highlighting the inherent flaws and imperfections of governance, regardless of the form of government in place. The term "whores" is used to symbolize the idea that those in power may compromise their principles and values in exchange for personal gain, political advantage, or to appease special interests. This cynicism towards politics and politicians is a recurring theme in O'Rourke's work, as he often employs satire and humor to shed light on the shortcomings of the political system.

Furthermore, O'Rourke's mention of democracy in this quote is particularly significant. In a democracy, the power ultimately lies with the people, who elect representatives to govern on their behalf. By stating that "the whores are us," O'Rourke is suggesting that in a democratic system, the responsibility for the actions and decisions of the government ultimately rests with the citizens themselves. This can be interpreted as a call to action for individuals to be more informed, engaged, and critical of the political process, rather than merely blaming the shortcomings of government on elected officials.

O'Rourke's quote also speaks to the complex relationship between the governed and those in power. It challenges the notion that politicians and government officials are separate from the general population, asserting that they are, in fact, a reflection of the society they represent. This idea of collective responsibility and accountability is a key aspect of democratic governance, as it emphasizes the interconnectedness of the government and the people it serves.

Moreover, O'Rourke's use of humor in the quote serves to both entertain and provoke thought. By employing satire and wit, he is able to convey a serious message about the state of politics and democracy in a way that is engaging and memorable. This approach is characteristic of O'Rourke's style, as he often uses humor as a tool for social and political commentary.

In conclusion, P. O'Rourke's quote "Every government is a parliament of whores. The trouble is, in a democracy, the whores are us" encapsulates his critical and humorous perspective on the nature of government, democracy, and the relationship between the governed and those in power. Through this quote, O'Rourke challenges individuals to consider their own role and responsibility in shaping the political landscape, while also highlighting the inherent flaws and complexities of governance.