Political Quotes

On the record
Respect is traditional; it is given not to what is proved to be good, but to what is known to be old.
Said by
Walter Bagehot

Editor's note · Context

Bagehot reflects on the nature of respect, noting that it is often given to tradition rather than merit.

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They are solely concerned with his attractiveness as a candidate; they need not regard his efficiency as a ruler.

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And again, in political matters, how quickly a leading statesman can change the tone of the community!

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Nothing promotes intellect like intellectual discussion, and nothing promotes intellectual discussion so much as government by discussion.

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