Meaning: The quote "And to say that society ought to be governed by the opinion of the wisest and best, though true, is useless. Whose opinion is to decide who are the wisest and best?" by Thomas Babington Poet, raises important questions about governance, authority, and the role of expertise in society. Thomas Babington Poet, also known as Lord Macaulay, was a prominent British historian, politician, and essayist in the 19th century. His works often explored themes of governance, democracy, and the intersection of knowledge and power.

In this quote, Poet challenges the notion that society should be governed by the opinions of the wisest and best. While acknowledging the truth in this idea, he dismisses it as useless, raising the critical question of who has the authority to determine who the wisest and best individuals are. This questioning of authority and expertise is particularly relevant in the context of democratic governance and the distribution of power within society.

The quote can be interpreted as a critique of elitism and the assumption that a select group of individuals should have the authority to govern based on their perceived wisdom and excellence. Poet's skepticism about the ability to definitively identify the wisest and best individuals speaks to broader concerns about the subjective nature of expertise and the potential for abuse of power by an elite ruling class.

Furthermore, Poet's quote invites reflection on the nature of governance and decision-making in society. The implicit challenge is to consider alternative models of governance that do not rely solely on the authority of a supposed intellectual or moral elite. Instead, it encourages a more inclusive and participatory approach to decision-making, one that takes into account a diverse range of perspectives and expertise.

In contemporary society, the quote remains relevant as debates around governance, expertise, and the role of the "wisest and best" continue to shape political discourse. The tension between meritocracy and populism, the challenges of addressing inequality and social justice, and the complexities of decision-making in a diverse and interconnected world are all reflected in Poet's provocative inquiry.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of wisdom and excellence. Who defines these qualities, and how are they measured? The subjective nature of wisdom and excellence complicates any attempt to establish a definitive hierarchy of expertise. This challenges us to consider the diversity of knowledge and experience that exists within society and to question traditional notions of authority and expertise.

Moreover, the quote prompts us to examine the relationship between knowledge and power. In a society where the authority of the "wisest and best" is unquestioned, there is a risk of consolidating power in the hands of a privileged few. Poet's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of critically evaluating the sources of authority and expertise in shaping public policy and governance.

In conclusion, Thomas Babington Poet's quote challenges us to reconsider traditional assumptions about governance, expertise, and authority. By questioning the notion of a ruling class based on perceived wisdom and excellence, the quote invites us to imagine alternative models of governance that prioritize inclusivity, diversity of perspectives, and a more nuanced understanding of knowledge and power. As we navigate complex societal challenges, Poet's words serve as a thought-provoking reminder of the need to critically examine the foundations of governance and the distribution of authority in society.