On the record
Dangers by being despised grow great; so they do by absurd provision against them.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “Dangers by being despised grow great; so they do by absurd provision against them.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke warns that neglecting dangers can amplify them, just as absurd measures against them can also exacerbate the situation.
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More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.
Jan 1, 1790
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
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.
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