All who have ever written on government are unanimous, that among a people generally corrupt, liberty cannot long exist.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Governments fail when the population lacks integrity. Liberty cannot survive in a corrupt society.
- In plain terms
- A corrupt people cannot keep freedom.
- What can you take from it?
- Protect moral character to preserve freedom.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can freedom exist without virtue?
- How do we stop corruption?
Another view
Strong institutions can sometimes withstand corruption.
More from Edmund Burke
By adverting to the dignity of this high calling our ancestors have turned a savage wilderness into a glorious empire: and have made the most extensive, and th…
Permalink to quote #82 The true danger is when liberty is nibbled away, for expedients, and by parts.
Permalink to quote #84 Magnanimity in politics is not seldom the truest wisdom; and a great empire and little minds go ill together.
Permalink to quote #81
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