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If we move away from the American tradition of lawyers…

“If we move away from the American tradition of lawyers defending those with whom they vehemently disagree -- as we temporarily did during the McCarthy period -- we weaken our commitment to the rule of law... So beware of an approach which limits advocacy to that which is approved by the standards…” quote by Alan Dershowitz
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“If we move away from the American tradition of lawyers defending those with whom they vehemently disagree -- as we temporarily did during the McCarthy period -- we weaken our commitment to the rule of law... So beware of an approach which limits advocacy to that which is approved by the standards of political correctness.”

Alan Dershowitz

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Limiting lawyers to only politically correct causes erodes the principle of defending opposing views, weakening law.

In simple terms: Defending unpopular sides is essential for justice.

Key Takeaway

Support open advocacy regardless of politics.

Themes

law justice free speech

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

argumentative philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom defense
  • public policy debates
  • civil rights advocacy
  • academic discourse

Key Concepts

legal ethics political correctness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should lawyers ever refuse a case on moral grounds?
  • How do we balance free speech with social responsibility?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the harm caused by defending harmful ideologies.

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