There is a boundary to men's passions when they act from feeling; none when they are under the influence of imagination.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Feelings have limits, but imagination can drive people to extremes without bounds.
- In plain terms
- Emotions are restrained, but unchecked imagination leads to excess.
- What can you take from it?
- Watch out for unchecked imagination driving behavior.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When did imagination drive you beyond reason?
Another view
Not all imaginative acts are extreme.
More from Edmund Burke
So far as it has gone, it probably is the most pure and defecated publick good which ever has been conferred on mankind.
Permalink to quote #24 We must all obey the great law of change. It is the most powerful law of nature.
Permalink to quote #26 Neither the few nor the many have a right to act merely by their will, in any matter connected with duty, trust, engagement, or obligation.
Permalink to quote #23
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