Nothing is a due and adequate representation of a state, that does not represent its ability, as well as its property.
Edmund Burke: “Nothing is a due and adequate representation of a state, that does not represent its ability, as well as its property.”
Editor's note · Context
In his "Reflections on the Revolution in France," Burke argues for a balanced representation that includes both talent and wealth.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
Let us add, if we please, but let us preserve what they have left; and standing on the firm ground of the British Constitution, let us be satisfied to admire, rather than attempt to follow in their desperate flights, the aëronauts of…
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.
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.





