Edmund Burke Quotes

For there is in mankind an unfortunate propensity to make themselves, their views and their works, the measure of excellence in every thing whatsoever

The only thing necessary for the continuance of evil is for a good man to do nothing.

No man had ever a point of pride that was not injurious to him.

Those who attempt to level, never equalize.

The nature of things is, I admit, a sturdy adversary.

Difficulty is a severe instructor, set over us by the supreme ordinance of a parental guardian and legislator, who knows us better than we know ourselves, as he loves us better too. He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves and sharpens our skill. Our antagonist is our helper.

Rage and frenzy will pull down more in half an hour than prudence, deliberation, and foresight can build up in a hundred years.

To give freedom is still more easy. It is not necessary to guide; it only requires to let go the rein. But to form a free government; that is, to temper together these opposite elements of liberty and restraint in one work, requires much thought, deep reflection, a sagacious, powerful, and combining mind.

As to the right of men to act anywhere according to their pleasure, without any moral tie, no such right exists. Men are never in a state of total independence of each other. It is not the condition of our nature: nor is it conceivable how any man can pursue a considerable course of action without its having some effect upon others; or, of course, without producing some degree of responsibility for his conduct.

There is no safety for honest men, but by believing all possible evil of evil men, and by acting with promptitude, decision, and steadiness on that belief.

All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.

Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver, and adulation is not of more service to the people than to kings.

Justice is itself the great standing policy of civil society; and any eminent departure from it, under any circumstances, lies under the suspicion of being no policy at all.

The true danger is when liberty is nibbled away, for expedience, and by parts.

Men are qualified for civil liberty in exact proportion to their disposition to put moral chains upon their appetites.