“In the matter of reforming things, as distinct from deforming them, there is one plain and simple principle; a principle which will probably be called a paradox. There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, ‘I don’t see the use of this; let us clear it away.’ To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: ‘If you don’t see the use of it, I certainly won’t let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.’”
Explore More About G. K. Chesterton
If you’re interested in learning more about G. K. Chesterton and their impact on history, here are some recommended resources:
- G. K. Chesterton Quotes (Dover Thrift Editions: Speeches/Quotations)
- In Defense Of Sanity: The Best Essays of G.K. Chesterton
- G. K. Chesterton: The Autobiography of G. K. Chesterton
- Wisdom and Innocence: A Life of G.K. Chesterton
- G. K. Chesterton: A Biography
- G. K. Chesterton: Apostle of Common Sense
- I Also Had My Hour: An Alternative Autobiography of G.K. Chesterton
- G.K. Chesterton: A Biography
- The Collected Works of G.K. Chesterton: St. Francis of Assisi, The Everlasting Man, St. Thomas Aquinas (Volume 2)
- Knight of the Holy Ghost: A Short History of G. K. Chesterton
- Orthodoxy: Original, Complete & Unabridged 1908 Edition with Exclusive Annotation and Author Biography (G.K. Chesterton Collection)
- AUTOBIOGRAPHY BY G. K. CHESTERTON.
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This topic Source has been extensively researched and documented by historians and scholars.
This passage, penned by G.K. Chesterton, introduces a powerful principle. It is often condensed to a simple phrase: