They are masters of the commonwealth, because in substance they are themselves the commonwealth.
Edmund Burke: “They are masters of the commonwealth, because in substance they are themselves the commonwealth.”
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Edmund Burke
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Burke asserts that the people are the essence of the commonwealth, holding ultimate power.
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Jan 1, 1790
No experience has taught us that in any other course or method than that of an hereditary crown our liberties can be regularly perpetuated and preserved sacred as our hereditary right.
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But the king of Great Britain obeys no other person; all other persons are individually, and collectively too, under him, and owe to him a legal obedience.
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Those who are servants in name, as well as in effect, do not like to be told of their situation, their duty, and their obligations.
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The speculative line of demarcation, where obedience ought to end and resistance must begin, is faint, obscure, and not easily definable.





