Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “I know many gentlemen think that the very essence of liberty consists in being governed according to law, as if…”

On the record
I know many gentlemen think that the very essence of liberty consists in being governed according to law, as if grievances had nothing real and intrinsic; but I cannot be of that opinion.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke argues that true liberty involves more than just being governed by law, emphasizing the importance of addressing real grievances.

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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.

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Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.

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

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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.

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