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Form Quote by Roger Scruton

“[Burke] emphasized that the new forms of politics, which hope to organize society around the rational pursuit of liberty, equality, fraternity, or their modernist equivalents, are actually forms of militant irrationality.” quote by Roger Scruton
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“[Burke] emphasized that the new forms of politics, which hope to organize society around the rational pursuit of liberty, equality, fraternity, or their modernist equivalents, are actually forms of militant irrationality.”

Roger Scruton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Uses of Puzzlement, 1995

Modern political ideals claiming rational liberty can become dogmatic, turning rational pursuits into irrational militancy.

In simple terms: Political ideals can become irrational dogma.

Key Takeaway

Critically evaluate political doctrines.

Themes

politics rationality dogma

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • activism
  • education
  • public debate

Key Concepts

Philosophy political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What distinguishes rational liberty from militant irrationality?
  • How can societies guard against dogmatic politics?
A Different Perspective

Idealistic goals may still inspire positive change.

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