Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “They choose to be thought subdued by the treachery of their friends rather than the superior bravery of their enemies.”

On the record
They choose to be thought subdued by the treachery of their friends rather than the superior bravery of their enemies.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke discusses the psychological tendency of the conquered to attribute their defeat to betrayal rather than enemy strength.

Share

More from Edmund Burke

Jan 1, 1790

The improvements of the National Assembly are superficial, their errors fundamental.

gutenberg.org
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.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1790

I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.

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