Edmund Burke’s writings in Reflections on the Revolution in France seem to indicate that he is not wholly supportive of the French Revolution. While Burke seems to be a proponent of citizens of a nation having rights and liberties, he cautions against unchecked liberty.

Burke references the Glorious revolution to illustrate his point. This event landed England with a new leader who was not within the direct line of succession and also led to the creation of the English bill of rights. Burke suggests that the course of action which Parliament took in selecting a leader for England was superior to an election because,  “an election would be utterly destructive of the unity,peace, and tranquillity of this nation.’” This idea is in opposition to the popular concept that a leader chosen by the people has the greatest right to rule.

Burke’s philosophy regarding politics seems to be one of moderation and practicality. Though he does not seem to fully oppose every idea on which the revolution is based, he also does not support the manner through which those involved are seeking to forward their ideas. Rather, his preference seems to be for a path that keeps the rights and liberty of the people in mind while still preserving things like the aforementioned unity, peace, and tranquility.