Meaning: The quote "The voice of the people has been said to be the voice of God; and, however generally this maxim has been quoted and believed, it is not true to fact. The people are turbulent and changing, they seldom judge or determine right" by Alexander Hamilton, a prominent politician and founding father of the United States, reflects his views on the limitations of popular opinion and the challenges associated with governance by the people.

Hamilton's statement challenges the commonly held belief that the collective voice of the people is inherently wise and just. Instead, he asserts that the people are "turbulent and changing," suggesting that their opinions and judgments are often influenced by the prevailing conditions and emotions of the moment. This skepticism towards the infallibility of popular opinion aligns with Hamilton's broader political philosophy, which emphasized the importance of strong, stable government institutions and the need for checks and balances to temper the potential excesses of popular sentiment.

In the context of the quote, Hamilton's reference to the people as "turbulent and changing" can be interpreted as a caution against the dangers of unchecked populism. He warns against the tendency of the masses to be swayed by transient passions and emotions, which may lead to hasty or ill-considered decisions. This sentiment underscores Hamilton's belief in the value of a system of government that is insulated from the immediate whims of the public, allowing for more deliberate and reasoned decision-making.

Furthermore, Hamilton's assertion that the people "seldom judge or determine right" suggests his belief that the collective wisdom of the populace is not always reliable in matters of governance. This skepticism towards the ability of the people to consistently make sound judgments aligns with Hamilton's preference for a government led by an educated and elite class, capable of making rational and informed decisions for the greater good of the nation.

It is important to note that Hamilton's views on the limitations of popular opinion must be understood within the historical and political context of the late 18th century. As one of the principal architects of the U.S. Constitution, Hamilton was deeply involved in the debates surrounding the structure and function of the new American government. His concerns about the potential pitfalls of direct democracy and the need for institutional safeguards against the volatility of public opinion were shaped by the tumultuous events of the time, including the challenges of nation-building and the need to establish a stable and effective system of governance.

In conclusion, Alexander Hamilton's quote challenges the notion that "the voice of the people" equates to the infallible "voice of God." Instead, he offers a skeptical view of popular opinion, emphasizing the fickle and changeable nature of the masses and cautioning against the blind reliance on collective judgment. While Hamilton's views may be seen as controversial or elitist by some, they reflect his deep concern for the stability and effectiveness of government, as well as his enduring legacy as a key figure in the shaping of the American political system.