A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
Prudence is not only the first in rank of the virtues political and moral, but she is the director and regulator, the standard of them all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Prudence is essential for guiding all virtues, both in politics and morality.
In this quote, Edmund Burke emphasizes the importance of prudence as a foundational virtue that not only ranks first among moral and political virtues but also serves as a guide and regulator for all other virtues. Prudence allows individuals to make thoughtful decisions, considering the consequences of their actions and ensuring that their moral and political choices are well-directed and balanced.
Themes
PrudenceVirtueWisdomPoliticsMorality
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of prudence in decision-making.
More from Edmund Burke
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Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
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The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
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