Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “For liberty is a good to be improved, and not an evil to be lessened.”

On the record
For liberty is a good to be improved, and not an evil to be lessened.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke emphasizes that liberty should be seen as a valuable good that can be enhanced rather than diminished.

Share

More from Edmund Burke

Jan 1, 1790

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.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1790

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.

gutenberg.org
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.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1790

Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.

gutenberg.org

Other voices in this conversation