On the recordJanuary 1, 1790
We shall never be such fools as to call in an enemy to the substance of any system to remove its corruptions, to supply its defects, or to perfect its construction.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “We shall never be such fools as to call in an enemy to the substance of any system to remove its corruptions, to supply…”
Editor's note · Context
From his critique of the French Revolution, Burke argues against inviting radical opponents to reform existing institutions.
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More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.
Jan 1, 1790
Whatever they are, I wish my countrymen rather to recommend to our neighbors the example of the British Constitution than to take models from them for the improvement of our own.
Jan 1, 1790
They come from one who has been no tool of power, no flatterer of greatness, and who in his last acts does not wish to belie the tenor of his life.
Jan 1, 1790
Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.
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