The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 04 (of 12)

"The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 04 (of 12)" by Edmund Burke is a compilation of political writings and correspondence from the late 1700s, focusing predominantly on revolutionary France and providing thoughtful commentary on topics such as government, societal structure, and human behavior. A prominent voice in the discussions of freedom versus custom, Burke's work demonstrates his intense worries regarding the outcomes of extreme political upheaval and the importance of maintaining government stability. The book begins with a detailed letter to a member of the National Assembly, where Burke responds to criticisms of his prior writings on French issues and defends his opposition to the dismantling of established social hierarchies. Burke contends that replacing the monarchy with local governance is illogical, arguing that true governance should not be entrusted to unqualified masses, and mourns the abandonment of noble principles in guiding politics, expressing his concerns about the destructive philosophies that are shaping the new political landscape in France. This sets the foundation for Burke's exploration of political philosophy within the context of current events.