On the record
This is the true touchstone of all theories which regard man and the affairs of men,--Does it suit his nature in general?--does it suit his nature as modified by his habits?
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgThis is the true touchstone of all theories which regard man and the affairs of men,--Does it suit his nature in general?--does it suit his nature as modified by his habits?
Burke presents a criterion for evaluating theories about human affairs based on their compatibility with human nature and habits.
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Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.
In some people I see great liberty, indeed; in many, if not in the most, an oppressive, degrading servitude.
Of this consolation whoever deprives them deadens their industry, and strikes at the root of all acquisition as of all conservation.
To tell the people that they are relieved by the dilapidation of their public estate is a cruel and insolent imposition.