On the record
A conscientious person would rather doubt his own judgment than condemn his species.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “A conscientious person would rather doubt his own judgment than condemn his species.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke suggests that a conscientious individual would hesitate to judge humanity harshly, valuing self-doubt over condemnation.
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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
They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.
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.
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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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