Meaning: The quote by James Fenimore Cooper highlights a common concern about the potential tyranny of public opinion in democratic societies. Cooper, an American novelist known for his works such as "The Last of the Mohicans," was writing during a time when democratic principles were gaining prominence in the United States, and his observation on the relationship between public opinion and the rule of law remains relevant today.

Cooper's assertion that democracies have a tendency to substitute public opinion for law reflects a fundamental tension in democratic governance. On the one hand, democracy is founded on the principle of popular sovereignty, in which the will of the people is the ultimate source of authority. This emphasis on the importance of public opinion is a defining feature of democratic systems, as it seeks to ensure that the government is accountable to the people it represents.

However, Cooper's warning suggests that the unchecked influence of public opinion can lead to the erosion of the rule of law. In a society where public opinion holds too much sway, there is a risk that the decisions and actions of the government may be driven by the transient whims of the majority, rather than by established legal principles and protections. This can result in the marginalization of minority voices and the violation of individual rights, as decisions are made based on popularity rather than on fairness and justice.

Historically, there are numerous examples of the potential dangers associated with the excessive influence of public opinion in democracies. The concept of "tyranny of the majority," popularized by political thinkers such as Alexis de Tocqueville, highlights the risk that a majority faction could use its power to oppress minority groups or individuals. This underscores the need for institutional safeguards, such as an independent judiciary and a system of checks and balances, to protect against the potential abuses of public opinion.

Moreover, the rise of social media and digital communication has amplified the impact of public opinion in contemporary democratic societies. The instantaneous and far-reaching nature of online discourse has the potential to shape public perceptions and influence political decision-making in unprecedented ways. While this can be a powerful tool for civic engagement and collective action, it also raises concerns about the susceptibility of democratic processes to manipulation and misinformation.

In light of Cooper's warning, it is essential for democratic societies to strike a balance between respecting the legitimate expression of public opinion and upholding the primacy of the rule of law. This requires a commitment to fostering an informed and deliberative public discourse, as well as a dedication to upholding the principles of justice and equality under the law. It also necessitates the cultivation of a civic culture that values critical thinking, empathy, and respect for diverse perspectives, in order to mitigate the risks of tyranny inherent in the unchecked power of public opinion.

Ultimately, Cooper's insight reminds us of the complex and delicate nature of democratic governance. While public opinion is a vital component of a healthy democracy, it must be tempered by a steadfast commitment to the rule of law and the protection of individual rights. By recognizing and addressing the besetting vice of substituting public opinion for law, democratic societies can strive to fulfill the promise of justice, liberty, and equality for all.