On the record
The example of a wise, moral, well-natured, and well-tempered spirit of freedom is that alone which can be useful to us, or in the least degree reputable or safe.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “The example of a wise, moral, well-natured, and well-tempered spirit of freedom is that alone which can be useful to us…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke argues that only a wise and moral example of freedom is truly beneficial.
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More from Edmund Burke
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.
Jan 1, 1790
They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.
Jan 1, 1790
I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.
Jan 1, 1790
Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.
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