"All that it takes for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing." - Sir Edmund Burke, 1769.
I don't believe that this quote could apply specifically to a certain period in time. This quote is applicable to humans in general no matter the time or place. It explains a part of basic human nature. Usually "evil" things are done for personal gain, to rise above others in a way that is easier than doing so legitimately. If there are not barriers or things to deter one from taking this easy path to greatness, then it will taken advantage of. You've probably heard the saying "you give an inch, they take a yard". The reality is, is that humans are selfish in general. We want to do what is best for us or our immediate group of family or friends and we want it done in the easiest, fastest way possible. If there aren't barriers or "good" in our life to stop us from taking this easy path then 9 times out of 10 we will take.
This "good" in our life can come in many forms. In many cases it is the law. The law of a country is supposed to reflect the general opinion of the countries citizens pertaining to what is considered just and unjust. The law and those who uphold it ensure that people adhere by these general societal beliefs.
Now I realize I'm not talking about the force of philanthropic good that we were probably meant to discuss after reading this quote. While I don't see this as the main message of the quote it certainly plays a part. Those who speak out publicly against injustices in effect accomplish the same thing as the law. They are creating a social deterrence against injustice. If someone can convince the majority of people that something is wrong, then that creates a deterrence. As much as everyone wants an easy way out, everyone also wants to fit in. Many people won't, for example, commit crimes because they don't want to be viewed as a "criminal" who is held at a much lower social standard. A perfect example of how both of these forces of "good" work can be seen in the crime of theft. While everyone would like to go to a store and take whatever they want for free, most of us don't. We don't for a variety of reasons. One we could be held accountable for our actions in the form of punishment by the state. But also perhaps just as prevalent is the fear of being looked down on by society as a criminal.
In summary all this quote really means is that evil needs to be held in check. If left unguarded then the flood gates will open and the world will be taken advantage of.
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