A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
It is a general popular error to suppose the loudest complainers for the public to be the most anxious for its welfare.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Not all those who complain are genuinely concerned about others' well-being.
This quote by Edmund Burke highlights the fallacy of assuming that those who vocally criticize or complain about societal issues are the ones who care the most for the public's welfare. In reality, such complaints may stem from personal agendas rather than a true commitment to improving the community or society as a whole.
Themes
ComplainersWelfarePublicErrorConcern
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about community improvement, you might use this quote to argue that not every critic has the best interests of the community at heart.
More from Edmund Burke
All quotes βTo read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.
Edmund BurkeRead
Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
Edmund BurkeRead
The hottest fires in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in times of moral crisis.
Edmund BurkeRead
Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
Edmund BurkeRead
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
Edmund BurkeRead
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