This was reserved to our time, to quench the little glimmerings of reason which might break in upon the solid darkness of this enlightened age.
Edmund Burke: “This was reserved to our time, to quench the little glimmerings of reason which might break in upon the solid darkness…”
Editor's note · Context
In his critique of the French Revolution, Burke ironically observes how the "enlightened age" paradoxically extinguishes reason.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
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 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…
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.
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.





