Sir Robert Walpole Quote

“Though I admire republican principles in theory, yet I am afraid the practice may be too perfect for human nature. We tried a republic last century, and it failed. Let our enemies try next. I hate political experiments.”

~ Sir Robert Walpole


Ratings and Comments


cal, Lewisville, TX

We were doing fine here until JFK and LBJ began their social experimentations.

Mike, Norwalk

WHAT ? ? ? By the statement, Walpole in no way admired republican principles (in theory or any other way) In what century was the Kingdom overthrown for an attempt at rule of law, as is averse to rule of man (or monarch)?

Ronw13, Yachats Or

It is not surprising to see that a good catholic as Walpole cared little for Protestants and the reformation which brought about the experiment of our ministering of a Free Republic.

Fredrick William Sillik, Anytown

The Socialist has a correct understanding of the potential and capabilities of human nature. Experimentation is part of the process, politics are not part of process. Socialist society is not too invested in voting, it's emphasis on a highly pronounced incorporated  scientific foundation allows the population to appreciate unbiased reason and reasonable solutions.

E Archer, NYC
  • Reply
E Archer, NYC Fredrick William Sillik, Anytown 1/8/24

That's not socialism, that's classic liberalism, perhaps, with a hint of arrogance and elitism.  "Correct understanding" is the aim, yes, but cannot ever be assured.  The science is never settled.  It is not about the population "appreciating" solutions but given the opportunity and right to accept or refuse them.  Bias  or simply subjective opinion  is inherent.  What must be afforded is the right to one's opinions, not the appreciation of the "solutions" from those that claim authority.

A republican form of government is one of consent and mutual agreement.  Where we do not agree, there is no consent, and therefore no authority to impose "solutions." 

A republican form of government's purpose is to protect the People's right to govern their own affairs and to protect their natural born rights. 

Socialism on the other hand assumes its own correctness, imposing "solutions" upon the common people without mutual agreement or consent, declaring their authority "reasonable."

E Archer, NYC

It is because of human nature that a republican form of government is to be guaranteed.  We cannot put our trust in rulers but upon the natural law.  The republican form places the responsibility upon the individual in concert with his neighbors, while the statist form (monarchy, dictatorship, socialism, etc.) claims authority over the common people.

But, yes, a republican form of government requires an informed and empowered populace that knows who they are and the responsibilities they have with a firm respect for the rights of others.  With a populace dependent upon the state and with the mindset of a servant, no republican government can stand  hence the reason England failed at a republican government.

America is a republic, only "if we can keep it..." 

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