All time Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Reform is a good replete with paradox; it is a cathartic which our political quacks, like our medical, recommend to others, but will not take themselves; it is admired by all who cannot effect it, and abused by all who can; it is thought pregnant with danger, for all time that is present, but would have been extremely profitable for that which is past, and will be highly salutary for that which is to come.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On Reform” published 1820
Reform appears beneficial but is often paradoxical, praised by those unable to enact it and exploited by those who can.
In simple terms: Reform’s paradox.
Critically assess reform motives.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- activism
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Who benefits from proposed reforms?
- How can genuine reform avoid exploitation?
Implementation may be self‑serving.