The men of England - the men, I mean of light and leading in England.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Burke refers to influential leaders or thinkers in England.
- In plain terms
- He means the important and influential people.
- What can you take from it?
- Influence lies with key individuals.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who holds real power?
- How do we measure influence?
Another view
It ignores the role of ordinary citizens.
More from Edmund Burke
The effect of liberty to individuals is, that they may do what they please: we ought to see what it will please them to do, before we risk congratulations.
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