Quote by William E. Gladstone
Liberalism is trust of the people tempered by prudence. Conservatism is distrust of the people tempered by fear.
Summary
This quote suggests that liberalism and conservatism have contrasting attitudes towards the general population. Liberalism is characterized by a belief in the capability and goodness of people, but also acknowledges the need for caution and careful decision-making. On the other hand, conservatism is depicted as having doubts about the public's ability to make informed choices, and approaches with wariness and trepidation. It implies that while liberalism places faith in the people, conservatism operates from a place of apprehension and anxiety.