A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
A very great part of the mischiefs that vex the world arises from words.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Words can create misunderstandings and conflicts in society.
In this quote, Edmund Burke emphasizes the significant role that language plays in shaping human interactions and societal issues. He suggests that much of the trouble and discord in the world stems from the way words are used, highlighting the importance of careful communication and the potential for words to cause harm or misunderstanding.
Themes
WordsCommunicationConflictUnderstandingSociety
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about social issues, this quote serves as a reminder to choose words wisely.
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
Similar quotes
Almost everybody accepts that some people can be killed. 'The concept of 'brain death' - the belief that people on respirators can legitimately be killed - shows that.
Peter SingerRead
Everything beautiful has a mark of eternity.
Simone WeilRead
Panic is the sudden realization that everything around you is alive.
William S. BurroughsRead
We don't have to expect everything from those who govern us; that would be juvenile.
Pope FrancisRead
I like fish, and I also like bear's paws. If I cannot have the two together, I will let the fish go, and take the bear's paws. So, I like life, and I also like righteousness. If I cannot keep the two together, I will let life go, and choose righteousness.
MenciusRead
Life does not agree with philosophy: There is no happiness that is not idleness, and only what is useless is pleasurable.
Anton ChekhovRead