Edmund Burke
Irish-born British statesman and political writer · 1729–1797
Edmund Burke was an Irish-born Whig member of the British Parliament and the author of Reflections on the Revolution in France. He defended inherited institutions and gradual reform against revolutionary change, while also supporting conciliation with the American colonies.
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Estimated from their documented words and actions. A simplification, not a verdict.
Urged conciliation with the American colonies' grievances while upholding Parliament's overall authority.
Defended parliamentary government with representatives using their own judgement, and opposed broad expansion of the franchise.
Saw restraints and established order as necessary to protect liberty from revolutionary disorder.
Defended the national inheritance of English institutions while seeing Europe as a common Christian commonwealth.
His Letters on a Regicide Peace urged continued war against revolutionary France.
Backed relief for Irish Catholics and attacked Warren Hastings for abuses against Indian customs and rulers.
Treated property and its inheritance as foundations of a stable society.
Thoughts and Details on Scarcity opposed state intervention in wages and grain markets.
Supported freer trade between Britain and Ireland and was influenced by Adam Smith.
Held that an established church is essential to the moral foundation of the state.
Widely seen as a founder of modern conservatism for his defence of tradition and prescription.
No strong recorded view.