The science of constructing a commonwealth or renovating it, or reforming it, is...not to be taught a priori...That which in the first instance is prejudicial may be excellent in its remoter operation, and its excellence may rise even from the ill effects it produces in the beginning. The reverse also happens; and very plausible schemes, with very pleasing commencements, have often shameful and lamentable conclusions.
Edmund BurkeMan acts from adequate motives relative to his interest, and not on metaphysical speculations.
Edmund BurkeThat the greatest security of the people, against the encroachments and usurpations of their superiors, is to keep the Spirit of Liberty constantly awake, is an undeniable truth
Edmund BurkePoetry, with all its obscurity, has a more general as well as a more powerful dominion over the passions than the art of painting.
Edmund Burke