Our form of government does not enter into rivalry with the institutions of others. Our government does not copy our
neighbors, but is an example to them. It is true that we are called a democracy, for the administration is in the hands of the
many and not of the few. But while there exists equal justice to all and alike in their private disputes, the claim of excellence
is also recognized; and when a citizen is in any way distinguished, he is preferred to the public service, not as a matter of
privilege, but as the reward of merit. Neither is poverty an obstacle, but a man may benefit his country whatever the
obscurity of his condition. There is no exclusiveness in our public life, and in our private business we are not suspicious of
one another, nor angry with our neighbor if he does what he likes; we do not put on sour looks at him which, though
harmless, are not pleasant. While we are thus unconstrained in our private business, a spirit of reverence pervades our public
acts; we are prevented from doing wrong by respect for the authorities and for the laws, having a particular regard to those
which are ordained for the protection of the injured as well as those unwritten laws which bring upon the transgressor of
them the reprobation of the general sentiment.
Which choice best represents the central idea of this excerpt?
O All chaos and trouble can be traced to having frustrating neighbors.
O Democracy allows men to advance because of merit rather than wealth or inherited class.
O It's important to have the best neighbors so chaos and frustration doesn't ensue.
You should be private in government matters.
