Edmund Burke was an
influential Anglo-Irish politician, orator and political thinker, known for
publicly expressing his opposition to the French Revolution.
Born in Dublin in 1729, Burke went to London to study law, but soon gave this up and pursued a literary and political career. He became a member of the parliament in 1765 and had a 30-year career as a political theorist and philosopher.
Later praised by both
conservatives and liberals, Burke believed that the government should be a
cooperative relationship between rulers and subjects. He also said that most
men in a nation are not qualified to govern it, stating that those who are
elected to represent the people should possess a greater level of wisdom than
the public.
The past is important, but change is inevitable so, in order to keep a balance between the new and the traditionak, society needs to learn how to adapt. Therefore, we should construct civilization by giving weight to our ancestors, but also consider ourselves and the needs of future generations.
One of Burke’s most
notable works is Reflections on the
Revolution in France, a book that was an immediate success and provoked a
huge response.
Here are 22 Edmund Burke quotes that still resonate today
Flavia Medrut is a freelance writer, researcher and part-time psychologist. She believes music, long walks and a good sense of humor are imperative in keeping one’s sanity.