"Whilst shame keeps its watch, virtue is not wholly extinguished in the heart; nor will moderation be utterly exiled from the minds of tyrants"
- Edmund Burke
About this Quote
This quote by Edmund Burke speaks with the concept that even in the darkest of times, there is still expect mankind. Embarassment can be a powerful incentive, and Burke suggests that it can be utilized to keep individuals in check and prevent them from doing wrong. He likewise suggests that even autocrats, who are frequently seen as cruel and oppressive, can still have a sense of small amounts and virtue in their hearts. This quote is a reminder that even in the most hard of times, there is still a possibility for people to do the ideal thing and make the world a better location. It is a pointer that even in the darkest of times, there is still wish for humankind.
"A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old. It is easy to love children. Even tyrants and dictators make a point of being fond of children. But the affection and care for the old, the incurable, the helpless are the true gold mines of a culture"
