On the record
The ministers of popularity will lose all their credit at a stroke, if they pursue any of those means necessary to give life, vigor, and consistence to government.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “The ministers of popularity will lose all their credit at a stroke, if they pursue any of those means necessary to give…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke warns that leaders who rely on popularity will lose credibility if they take necessary but unpopular actions.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
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.
Jan 1, 1790
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.
Jan 1, 1790
The improvements of the National Assembly are superficial, their errors fundamental.
Jan 1, 1790
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
Other voices in this conversation
