"So, the democratic system they designed wasn't meant to elect saints."
"Instead, it was to build a defensive system that prevents bad people from doing bad things."
Roosevelt extended his hand, drawing a circle in the air.
"This is a spirit deeply rooted in the ethos of the frontier."
"It acknowledges that the world is savage, competition is brutal, and resources are scarce."
"In this jungle, nothing can be taken for granted."
"You only gain as many rights as you are willing to surrender."
"A system where you don't have to give anything up, and yet everyone else naturally sides with you? That's impossible in this world."
As Leo listened, he felt a fog in his mind begin to lift.
"The logic of surrendering rights?" Leo asked. "Like... a transaction?"
Roosevelt nodded.
"That is the core of the American social contract theory."
"All rights come at a price."
