On the record
Thus the man who lives in the exercise of arbitrary power condemns himself to eternal ignorance.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “Thus the man who lives in the exercise of arbitrary power condemns himself to eternal ignorance.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke argues that living under arbitrary power leads to ignorance and a lack of awareness.
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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.
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.
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Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
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They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.
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