The Philosophy of Edmund Burke: A Selection from His Speeches and Writings

by Edmund Burke, Louis Bredvold (Editor), Ralph Ross (Editor)

Edmund Burke, the greatest Whig spokesman of his day in the British Parliament, was one of the most forceful & rational political thinkers of all time. This selection from his speeches & writings reveals a political philosophy which is viable, even prophetic, in our own time. Burke's distrust of disembodied reason, his vision of the law of all nations & his wise pragmatism speak to everyone concerned with maintaining the democratic freedoms in an age when millions are subject to the tyranny of abstract political ideas.

Genres: Philosophy

288 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1960

About the author

After A Philosophical Inquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful , aesthetic treatise of 1757, Edmund Burke, also noted Irish British politician and writer, supported the cause of the American colonists in Parliament but took a more conservative position in his Reflections on the Revolution in France in 1790.

Edmund Burke, an Anglo statesman, author, orator, and theorist, served for many years in the House of Commons as a member of the Whig party. People remember mainly the dispute with George III, great king, and his leadership and strength. The latter made Burke to lead figures, dubbed the "old" faction of the Whig against new Charles James Fox. Burke published a work and attempted to define triggering of emotions and passions in a person. Burke worked and founded the Annual Register, a review. People often regard him as the Anglo founder.

Reviews

[Alexander Asay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This anthology, The Philosophy of Edmund Burke, curated from the extensive works of the 18th-century statesman and philosopher, provides an insightful journey into Burke's political and philosophical thought. Edited to highlight his key ideas, this volume includes selections from Burke's speeches, essays, and letters, offering readers a comprehensive overview of his conservative ideology.

Burke's contributions to political theory, particularly his reflections on the French Revolution, the nature of society, and the role of tradition, are presented with clarity. The editor has chosen pieces that illustrate Burke's belief in the importance of established institutions, the organic growth of society, and the dangers of radical change without respect for historical precedent. This collection begins with Burke's early work, moving through his critiques of revolutionary excess to his thoughts on governance, morality, and aesthetics.

The selection showcases Burke's rhetorical skill, his advocacy for a balanced constitution, and his nuanced understanding of human nature and society. His famous Reflections on the Revolution in France is a centerpiece, where he articulates his vision of a society bound by tradition and gradual reform rather than by abrupt political upheaval.

However, while the anthology does well to represent Burke's breadth, it might not fully convey the depth of his engagement with contemporary issues of his time, such as colonial policies, which are given less attention. Additionally, the philosophical and political arguments require some background knowledge to fully appreciate, potentially challenging readers unfamiliar with 18th-century thought or the historical context.

The Philosophy of Edmund Burke serves as an excellent introduction for those interested in conservative philosophy or the intellectual history of political thought. It captures the essence of Burke's philosophy - his skepticism of abstract principles, his respect for practical wisdom, and his advocacy for a society rooted in the richness of its past. This work is essential for students, scholars, and anyone interested in the foundations of modern conservatism.

[Carmen · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a cool philosopher, one that I knew very little about prior to reading this. Another awesome book from the Lost book club! Especially enjoyed reading about his views on reform v innovation, and jacobins.