Some 'standing system' of semi-free discussion is as necessary to break the thick crust of custom and begin progress as it is in later ages to carry on progress when begun; probably it is even more necessary.
Bagehot emphasizes the necessity of a system for open discussion to foster societal progress.
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No doubt this momentary gain is bought at a ruinous after-cost.
Savages waste away before modern civilisation; they seem to have held their ground before the ancient.
The power of free interchange of ideas being wanting, the ideas themselves were barren.
And therefore party is inherent in it, is bone of its bone, and breath of its breath.
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