On the record
If they punish, they make a promiscuous massacre; if they spare, they make a general act of oblivion.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “If they punish, they make a promiscuous massacre; if they spare, they make a general act of oblivion.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke highlights the extremes of punishment and forgiveness, suggesting both can lead to disastrous outcomes.
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Jan 1, 1790
I think our happy situation owing to our Constitution,--but owing to the whole of it, and not to any part singly,--owing in a great measure to what we have left standing in our several reviews and reformations, as well as to what we have…
Jan 1, 1790
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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