Key Concepts

Argument Explanation
Tradition and Continuity Burke argued that society should respect tradition and maintain continuity with the past. He believed that the French revolutionaries were disregarding the wisdom and experience of previous generations, which could lead to chaos and disorder.
Prudence and Gradualism He advocated for gradual and prudent reforms rather than sudden and radical changes. Burke believed that abrupt revolutions could lead to unforeseen consequences and create more problems than they solve.
Natural Rights and Social Contract Theory Burke rejected the idea of natural rights and social contract theory, which were central to the philosophical justification of the French Revolution. He argued that rights and political institutions should be based on tradition, experience, and the specific circumstances of each society.
Prejudice and Prescriptive Rights Burke valued prejudice, which he defined as the accumulated wisdom and experience of generations. He believed that prescriptive rights, or rights acquired through long-standing practice and tradition, were more important than abstract principles.
Distrust of Reason and Rationalism Burke was skeptical of the excessive reliance on reason and rationalism championed by the French revolutionaries. He argued that human reason is limited and that society should also rely on tradition, sentiment, and experience.
Criticism of Radical Egalitarianism Burke criticized the radical egalitarianism of the French Revolution, which aimed to abolish all forms of social and political inequality. He believed that some level of inequality was natural and necessary for the stability and functioning of society.

Quotes

Chapter Quote
Introduction
"It is now sixteen or seventeen years since I saw the queen of France, then the dauphiness, at Versailles; and surely never lighted on this orb, which she scarcely seemed to touch, a more delightful vision."
Chapter I
"To innovate is not to reform."
Chapter II
"The effect of liberty to individuals is, that they may do what they please; we ought to see what it will please them to do, before we risk congratulations, which may be soon turned into complaints."
Chapter III
"Society is indeed a contract. Subordinate contracts for objects of mere occasional interest may be dissolved at pleasure, but the state ought not to be considered as nothing better than a partnership agreement in a trade of pepper and coffee, calico or tobacco, or some other such low concern, to be taken up for a little temporary interest, and to be dissolved by the fancy of the parties."
Chapter IV
"All men have equal rights, but not to equal things."
Chapter V
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."

Contents

Section Summary
Introduction Burke's letter to Charles-Jean-François Depont, where he prefaces his thoughts on the French Revolution and hints at the dangers he perceives.
The Glorious Revolution vs. The French Revolution Burke contrasts the English Glorious Revolution of 1688 with the French Revolution, arguing that the former preserved the nation's traditions and legal framework whereas the latter destructively abandoned them.
Critique of the National Assembly Burke criticizes the National Assembly in France, claiming it to be an illegitimate and dangerous body. He argues that it consists of inexperienced and unqualified individuals who are incapable of governing.
Role of Tradition and Edmund Burke's Concept of Society Burke emphasizes the importance of tradition and gradual evolutionary change, instead of radical and revolutionary upheaval. He posits that society is a contract among the living, the dead, and those yet to be born.
The Church and the State Burke's defense of the established Church and its integral role within the state. He argues that the revolutionaries' attacks on the Church are damaging to moral and social order.
Consequences of the Revolution Burke predicts the negative consequences of the French Revolution, including social chaos, the rise of tyranny, and the spread of revolutionary ideas across Europe.
Reflections on Rights and Governance Discussion on the nature of rights and government. Burke critiques the abstract principles of natural rights proposed by revolutionaries, suggesting that they are impractical and harmful if not tempered by tradition and experience.
Conclusion Burke's final appeal for a return to order and caution, warning of the long-term dangers posed by the revolutionary ideology in France.