Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “Its very purpose is to make war with abuses,--not, indeed, to make war with the dead, but with those which live, and…”

On the record
Its very purpose is to make war with abuses,--not, indeed, to make war with the dead, but with those which live, and flourish, and reign.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke emphasizes that the aim of reform is to combat living abuses rather than those that are no longer relevant.

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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.

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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.

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They come from one who has been no tool of power, no flatterer of greatness, and who in his last acts does not wish to belie the tenor of his life.

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Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.

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