A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
The public interest requires doing today those things that men of intelligence and good will would wish, five or ten years hence, had been done.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We should act today in ways that will be seen as wise and beneficial in the future.
Edmund Burke's quote emphasizes the importance of foresight and responsibility in our actions. It encourages individuals and leaders to consider the long-term impact of their decisions, advocating for choices that will be viewed positively in hindsight, thereby serving the greater good of society.
Themes
ResponsibilityForesightPublic InterestFutureWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
A politician could quote this during a speech to underscore the importance of sustainable policy-making.
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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