"The first and simplest emotion which we discover in the human mind, is curiosity."

Philosophy

Create & Download Quote Graphic

Customize Image

1. Canvas Aspect Ratio

2. Palette Theme

Thematic Reflection

This quotation examines the core nature of Philosophy as articulated by Edmund Burke. Within historical and literary traditions, reflections on Philosophy provide actionable mental models, challenging individuals to evaluate personal ethics, self-discipline, and daily actions.

Explore all Philosophy quotes → Browse all wisdom by Edmund Burke →

About Edmund Burke

Edmund Burke was an Anglo-Irish writer, philosopher, and politician who is widely credited as the founder of the cultural and political philosophy of conservatism. Regarded as one of the most influential conservative thinkers and political writers of the 18th century, Burke spent the majority of his career in Great Britain and was elected as a member of Parliament (MP) from 1766 to 1794 in the House of Commons of Great Britain with the Whig Party. His writings played a significant role in influencing public views and opinions in both Great Britain and France following the French Revolution in 1789, and he remains a major figure in modern conservative circles.

View all quotes by Edmund Burke →
Editorial Integrity: Curated and fact-checked under our Editorial Standards to eliminate misattributions and preserve historical authenticity.
Learn about our methodology →

More by Edmund Burke

"Dangers by being despised grow great."

— Edmund Burke
Read more →

"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."

— Edmund Burke
Read more →

"Nothing turns out to be so oppressive and unjust as a feeble government."

— Edmund Burke
Read more →

"Good order is the foundation of all things."

— Edmund Burke
Read more →

More about Philosophy

"I think having children in general is always very helpful for acting."

— Josh Hamilton
Read more →

"I'm kind of a failure. I mean, I'll be honest. I'm successful in that I'm getting to work on great stuff, but I think I'm a failure in all the personal stuff that is most important to me."

— Paul Feig
Read more →

"For art to exist, for any sort of aesthetic activity to exist, a certain physiological precondition is indispensable: intoxication."

— Friedrich Nietzsche
Read more →

"I think it is most important for a teacher to play the pieces and studies that are being played by the student."

— James Galway
Read more →
Browse all Philosophy quotes →