Quote by Edmund Burke
But a good patriot, and a true politician, always considers how he shall make the most of the existing materials of his country. A disposition, to preserve, and an ability to improve, taken together, would be my standard of a statesman. Everything else is vulgar in the conception, perilous in the execution.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the qualities of a true patriot and politician. It suggests that a good leader should prioritize utilizing the available resources and potential of their country. The quote highlights the importance of preserving what is already in place and having the skill to make improvements. The notion of preserving and improving, when combined, becomes the benchmark for a statesman. The quote also implies that any other approach is both lacking in originality and carries potential risks.
By Edmund Burke