Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: However, though the more sublime genius and the greatest art are required for the former, yet the latter, as it is more…

On the record
However, though the more sublime genius and the greatest art are required for the former, yet the latter, as it is more common and more easy, so it is more useful, and administers more directly to the great business of life.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke argues that while inventive genius is sublime, descriptive genius is more common and practical.

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