Reflections on the Revolution in France

The conservative case for ordered liberty, made by the man who also defended the American Revolution. Burke warned that tearing up inherited institutions in the name of abstract reason invites tyranny, not freedom, because the slow growth of custom holds more wisdom than any single generation's theory. Paine answered him directly. The argument between them, prudence against principle, the gradual against the sudden, is one a free society never finishes, and is healthier for keeping.

The Irish-born member of Parliament who founded modern conservatism by arguing against a revolution while defending the American one. Reflections on the Revolution in France warns that tearing up inherited institutions in the name of abstract reason invites tyranny, not liberty. Paine answered him directly. The argument between the two men, prudence against principle, the slow against the sudden, is one a free society never finishes having, and is the better for it.