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About this quote

What does it mean?
Liberalism fails because it applies abstract philosophy to practical politics instead of principles.
In plain terms
Liberalism is bad because it uses big ideas instead of real rules for politics.
What can you take from it?
Distinguish between philosophical ideals and political principles.

Where it applies

  • political theory
  • policy making

Putting it to work

  • ground policies in practice
  • evaluate ideologies

Questions to consider

  • Can politics work without philosophy?
  • What is the difference between ideals and principles?

Another view

Philosophy often provides the moral foundation for political principles.

More from Benjamin Disraeli

  1. A precedent embalms a principle.

    Permalink to quote #15
  2. Nationality is the miracle of political independence; race is the principle of physical analogy.

    Permalink to quote #17
  3. Things must be done by parties, not by persons using parties as tools.

    Permalink to quote #14

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