Questions to Guide the Reading of Burke’s Reflections on the Revolution in France

1. In Burke’s eyes, how revolutionary was the French Revolution? What are some of the reasons

for his position?

2. How does Burke respond to the purported “three rights” that the English acquired during the Glorious Revolution?

3. What distinction does Burke make between a “true moral equality” and a “leveling-type” of equality?

4. What did Burke think was the difference between natural and civil rights? Why did he prefer the latter to the former? How does Burke differ from the social contract theorists?

5. What is the political meaning of the statement that citizens of any commonwealth are really only “temporary possessors and life-renters” of their commonwealth?

6. According to Burke, governmental power is not enough to stabilize society. How do property, religion, and prejudice help governmental power to stabilize society?

7. Is politics an art (a matter of practical know-how) or a science (a matter of theoretical knowledge)?

8. Did Burke think reason and revolution are paired, as opposed to tradition and stability? 9. Is Burke opposed to all social and political change?