On the record
To say it was not as well constituted as it ought to be is saying nothing at all to the purpose; for that assertion evidently regards improvement, not existence.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “To say it was not as well constituted as it ought to be is saying nothing at all to the purpose; for that assertion…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke argues that criticizing the constitution of society does not address its existence.
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More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
The House of Lords, for instance, is not morally competent to dissolve the House of Commons,--no, nor even to dissolve itself, nor to abdicate, if it would, its portion in the legislature of the kingdom.
Jan 1, 1790
Their objects would be enlarged with their elevation; but their disposition, and habits, and mode of accomplishing their designs must remain the same.
Jan 1, 1790
Their trust for the future preservation of the Constitution was not in future revolutions.
Jan 1, 1790
As he is not to obey us, but we are to obey the law in him, our Constitution has made no sort of provision towards rendering him, as a servant, in any degree responsible.
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