Political Quotes

Harold J. Laski: “But Chatham was a wayward genius who had nothing of that instinct for common counsel which is of the essence of party…”

On the record
But Chatham was a wayward genius who had nothing of that instinct for common counsel which is of the essence of party government; while it is necessary to draw a firm line between Disraeli's genial declamation and his practice when in office.
Said by
Harold J. Laski

Editor's note · Context

Laski contrasts Chatham's genius with Disraeli's practical approach to party governance.

Share

More from Harold J. Laski

He is able, accordingly, to indulge in the twofold luxury not only of preserving his own authority, but also of assisting the persons attacked to enter, if they so choose, the way of truth.

gutenberg.org

When attacks on liberty are political or economic, it is their motive rather than their nature that changes.

gutenberg.org

It has been the historic character of persecution always to degrade the persecutor and to strengthen the persecuted by drawing attention to their claims.

gutenberg.org

To deny novelty or grievance a right of expression is a certain, if, indeed, an ultimate, validation of the truth they contain.

gutenberg.org

Other voices in this conversation