There must be a great change of scene; there must be a magnificent stage effect; there must be a grand spectacle to rouse the imagination, grown torpid with the lazy enjoyment of sixty years' security, and the still unanimating repose of public prosperity.
Edmund Burke: “There must be a great change of scene; there must be a magnificent stage effect; there must be a grand spectacle to…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke suggests that the desire for revolution is sometimes fueled by a craving for dramatic change and spectacle, especially after long periods of peace and prosperity.
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I think our happy situation owing to our Constitution,--but owing to the whole of it, and not to any part singly,--owing in a great measure to what we have left standing in our several reviews and reformations, as well as to what we have…
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
The improvements of the National Assembly are superficial, their errors fundamental.
I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.





