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Quote by Joseph de Maistre

“All sciences have their mysteries and at certain points the apparently most obvious theory will be found in contradiction with experience. Politics, for example, offers several proofs of this truth. In theory, is anything more absurd than hereditary monarchy? We judge it by experience, but if government had never been heard of and we had to choose one, whoever would deliberate between hereditary and elective monarchy would be taken for a fool. Yet we know by experience that the first is, all things considered, the best that can be imagined, while the second is the worst. What arguments could not be amassed to establish that sovereignty comes from the people? However they all amount to nothing. Sovereignty is always taken, never given, and a second more profound theory subsequently discovers why this must be so. Who would not say the best political constitution is that which has been debated and drafted by statesmen perfectly acquainted with the national character, and who have foreseen every circumstance? Nevertheless nothing is more false. The best constituted people is the one that has the fewest written constitutional laws, and every written constitution is WORTHLESS.”

Quote by Joseph de Maistre

Book:St Petersburg Dialogues: Or Conversations on the Temporal Government of Providence
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St Petersburg Dialogues: Or Conversations on the Temporal Government of Providence

This work is a collection of dialogues that delve into the concept of divine providence, examining its role in shaping the temporal aspects of human life. The discussions take place in the historical context of St Petersburg, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of faith and governance. more

Author

Joseph de Maistre
Joseph de Maistre

Joseph de Maistre was a French philosopher known for his conservative political theories, which had a profound impact on 19th-century European political philosophy. more

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