On the record
Government with insolence is despotism; but when contempt is added, it becomes worse; and to pay for contempt is the excess of slavery.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “Government with insolence is despotism; but when contempt is added, it becomes worse; and to pay for contempt is the…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke distinguishes between despotism and a more contemptuous form of governance, equating the latter with extreme oppression.
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More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.
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.
Jan 1, 1790
Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.
Jan 1, 1790
They come from one who has been no tool of power, no flatterer of greatness, and who in his last acts does not wish to belie the tenor of his life.
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