The first thing a man under such an accusation owes to the world is to deny the charge; next, to put it to the proof; and lastly, to let inquiry freely go on.
Edmund Burke: “The first thing a man under such an accusation owes to the world is to deny the charge; next, to put it to the proof…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke outlines the responsibilities of a person accused of wrongdoing, emphasizing the need for denial and inquiry.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.
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.
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…
Let us imitate their caution, if we wish to deserve their fortune or to retain their bequests.





