I am convinced that we have a degree of delight, and that no small one, in the real misfortunes and pain of others
Edmund BurkeThere is a courageous wisdom; there is also a false, reptile prudence, the result not of caution but of fear.
Edmund BurkeSociety is indeed a contract. Subordinate contracts for objects of mere occasional interest may be dissolved at pleasure - but the state ought not to be considered as nothing better than a partnership agreement in a trade of pepper and coffee, calico, or tobacco, or some other such low concern, to be taken up for a little temporary interest, and to be dissolved by the fancy of the parties. It is to be looked on with other reverence, because it is not a partnership in things subservient only to the gross animal existence of a temporary and perishable nature.
Edmund BurkeHe had no failings which were not owing to a noble cause; to an ardent, generous, perhaps an immoderate passion for fame; a passion which is the instinct of all great souls.
Edmund Burke