We have not (as I conceive) lost the generosity and dignity of thinking of the fourteenth century; nor as yet have we subtilized ourselves into savages.
Edmund Burke: “We have not (as I conceive) lost the generosity and dignity of thinking of the fourteenth century; nor as yet have we…”
Editor's note · Context
Continuing his defense of British character against revolutionary ideals, Burke argues that the nation has retained its historical virtues and avoided intellectual degradation.
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Not being illuminated with the light of which the gentlemen of France tell us they have got so abundant a share, they acted under a strong impression of the ignorance and fallibility of mankind.
I think our happy situation owing to our Constitution,--but owing to the whole of it, and not to any part singly,--owing in a great measure to what we have left standing in our several reviews and reformations, as well as to what we have…
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.
I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.





