A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Edmund BurkeRead
Of this stamp is the cant of, Not men, but measures.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of evaluating actions based on their measurements and outcomes rather than on the individuals behind them.
Edmund Burke's quote suggests that the focus should not be on the individuals executing actions, but rather on the actions themselves and their consequences. This perspective encourages an objective analysis of policies, decisions, and behaviors based on measurable outcomes rather than personal biases or reputations, highlighting the significance of impartiality and accountability in moral and political assessments.
Themes
ActionsMeasuresObjectivityOutcomesEthics
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a debate on public policy to argue for an objective assessment of laws.
More from Edmund Burke
All quotes βTo read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.
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Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
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The hottest fires in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in times of moral crisis.
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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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Every improvement that is put upon the real estate is the result of an idea in somebody's head. The skyscraper is another idea; the railroad is another; the telephone and all those things are merely symbols which represent ideas. An andiron, a wash-tub, is the result of an idea that did not exist before.
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But whether I become a believer or remain an agnostic, my belief or disbelief must derive its source from within, not from without. I, myself, must create its symbols. The transcendental is that which produces its own form. I will never discover its secret if I do not find it in my own heart; if I do not possess it already I shall never be able to acquire it.
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An abnormal reaction to an abnormal situation is normal behavior.
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If you would test the character of anything, you only need to enquire whether that thing leads you to God or away from God.
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Military investigations are designed not to find anyone guilty. And you can't investigate up the chain of command, which is a huge impediment.
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All human things Of dearest value hang on slender strings.
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