Authority Quote by Edmund Burke
“In their nomination to office they will not appoint to the exercise of authority as to a pitiful job, but as to a holy function.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Thoughts on the French Revolution, 1790
He argues that political roles are sacred duties, not menial jobs, emphasizing the moral weight of authority.
In simple terms: Public office is a holy responsibility.
Key Takeaway
Treat authority with humility and purpose.
Themes
politics
service
ethics
leadership
Mood
formal
respectful
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- government service
- community leadership
- policy making
- civil service
Key Concepts
public duty
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders stay humble?
- What safeguards protect against misuse?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused despite noble intent.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)