Walter Bagehot: “Perfection in legislation is not to be looked for, and is not, indeed…”

On the record

Perfection in legislation is not to be looked for, and is not, indeed, much wanted in a rude, painful, confined life.

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Walter Bagehot

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Bagehot suggests that perfection in legislation is unrealistic and unnecessary in primitive societies.

More from Walter Bagehot

The Parliament, the laws, the press were human institutions; but the Monarchy was a Divine institution.

But all men heed great results, and a change of Government is a great result.

And again, in political matters, how quickly a leading statesman can change the tone of the community!

Carlyle has taught the present generation many lessons, and one of these is that 'God-fearing' armies are the best armies.

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Walter Bagehot: “Perfection in legislation is not to be looked for, and is not, indeed, much wanted in a rude, painful, confined life.”