To command that opinion, the first step is to establish a dominion over those who direct it.
Edmund Burke: “To command that opinion, the first step is to establish a dominion over those who direct it.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke explains the strategy employed by those seeking to influence public thought and sentiment.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
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.
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.
If any of them should happen to propose a scheme of liberty soberly limited, and defined with proper qualifications, he will be immediately outbid by his competitors, who will produce something more splendidly popular.





