Edmund Burke: 'It is ordained in the eternal constitution of things, that men of intemperate minds cannot be free. Their passions forge their fetters.'

It is ordained in the eternal constitution of things, that men of intemperate minds cannot be free. Their passions forge their fetters.

In his quote, Edmund Burke reflects on the link between the freedom of individuals and the temperament of their minds. According to him, it is inherent in the eternal constitution of things that individuals with intemperate minds cannot truly experience freedom. Their unrestrained passions, he suggests, act as chains that confine and limit their capacity for liberty. This profound observation from Burke unveils an essential truth about human nature and raises intriguing questions about the complexities of freedom.At first glance, Burke's statement may seem straightforward, as he emphasizes that intemperate minds lack the ability to be free. To understand this, it is essential to define what is meant by an intemperate mind. An intemperate mind refers to one that lacks self-control and is driven primarily by unchecked emotions and impulses. These individuals are likely to make decisions impulsively, without considering the long-term consequences. In this context, freedom is not merely the absence of physical constraints but rather the ability to deliberate and act in a considered manner, guided by reason and wisdom.By asserting that intemperate minds cannot be free, Burke implies that true freedom stems from the ability to exercise self-restraint and self-discipline. It is only through managing and governing our passions that we can avoid becoming enslaved by them. In other words, our emotions should serve as guides rather than rulers, and it is our responsibility to maintain control over them. This notion of self-control becomes the key to unlocking the door to true freedom.However, Burke's quotation becomes even more fascinating when interpreted from a different philosophical standpoint. By delving into the concept of existentialism, we can contrast his perspective with the idea that freedom lies within the very essence of human existence. Existentialism suggests that individuals are inherently free beings, and it is through their actions and choices that they create their own meaning and define their existence. In this framework, freedom is an innate characteristic that cannot be limited or impeded by external circumstances.Drawing a comparison between these two philosophies, one may argue that while Burke focuses on the constraint of intemperate minds, existentialism highlights the inherent freedom within individuals. However, when examined more closely, these perspectives can be seen as complementary rather than contradictory. Burke's emphasis on self-control implies that individuals have the power to shape their characters and ultimately determine their freedom. Likewise, existentialism recognizes that freedom entails personal responsibility and the active engagement of individuals in shaping their lives. Thus, while Burke emphasizes the curtailment of freedom through intemperate minds, existentialism presents a more optimistic view of human potential.In conclusion, Edmund Burke's quote provides profound insights into human nature and the intricate relationship between freedom and the temperament of our minds. His observation that intemperate minds cannot be truly free serves as a reminder of the importance of self-control and self-discipline in attaining genuine freedom. Moreover, juxtaposing his perspective with the existentialist notion of inherent freedom highlights the complex interplay between personal agency and external constraints. Ultimately, understanding and navigating the dynamics between our passions and our ability to exercise self-restraint are vital in our quest for both personal and societal freedom.