Edmund Burke
Edmund Burke was an Irish statesman, economist, and philosopher, best known for his support of the American Revolution and his opposition to the French Revolution. He is often regarded as the father of modern conservatism.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Reflections on the Revolution in France
and on the Proceedings in Certain Societies in London Relative to that Event
This book is a political pamphlet written in the 18th century, where the author criticizes the French Revolution, arguing that it has gone too far in its quest for radical change. He asserts that the revolutionaries, in their rejection of tradition and their embrace of abstract notions of liberty and equality, have overlooked the complexities of real social and political life. The author advocates for gradual, prudent reform rather than sudden, violent change and emphasizes the importance of tradition and inherited institutions.
The 532nd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Selections From The Speeches And Writings Of Edmund Burke
With an Introduction and Notes by E.J. Payne
This book is a compilation of excerpts from the speeches and writings of Edmund Burke, an influential 18th-century statesman and philosopher. Known for his strong support of the American Revolution and his opposition to the French Revolution, Burke's work covers a wide range of political and social issues. The selections in this volume highlight his thoughts on human rights, government, and society, showcasing his eloquent style and his commitment to the principles of conservatism and liberalism. This collection provides insight into Burke's complex and thoughtful perspectives that have made him a foundational figure in Western political thought.
The 11728th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. A Philosophical Enquiry Into...The Sublime And Beautiful
the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful
This 18th-century treatise explores the nature and causes of two distinct aesthetic concepts: the sublime and the beautiful. The author argues that the sublime is rooted in experiences of awe, terror, and vastness, which can overwhelm the senses and provoke a feeling of the greatness beyond human comprehension. In contrast, the beautiful is associated with qualities of harmony, smoothness, and gentleness, eliciting pleasure and affection. The work delves into the psychological responses these concepts evoke and examines their influence on art and society, establishing a framework that has influenced aesthetic theory and the philosophy of art.
The 11869th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. A Philosophical Enquiry Into The Origin Of Our Ideas Of The Sublime And Beautiful
With Several Other Additions
The book explores the concepts of the sublime and the beautiful, examining how these aesthetic experiences affect human emotions and perceptions. It delves into the psychological and physiological responses that these experiences evoke, distinguishing between the awe and terror associated with the sublime and the pleasure and harmony linked to the beautiful. Through a detailed analysis, the work seeks to understand the origins and nature of these ideas, considering their impact on art, nature, and human behavior. The author argues that the sublime and beautiful are fundamental to understanding human experience and creativity.
