It may be said that the power of preventing bad laws…
“It may be said that the power of preventing bad laws includes that of preventing good ones; and may be used to the one purpose as well as to the other. But this objection will have little weight with those who can properly estimate the mischiefs of that inconstancy and mutability in the laws, which form the greatest blemish in the character and genius of our governments.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Legal stability requires both preventing harmful statutes and allowing beneficial ones; rigidity can hinder progress.
In simple terms: Good lawmaking balances restraint and flexibility.
Key Takeaway
Balance caution with openness.
Themes
law
government
policy
philosophy
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- judicial review
- policy reform
Key Concepts
legal theory
public good
institutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- How to we ensure laws adapt responsibly?
- What safeguards prevent harmful legislation?
A Different Perspective
Over‑regulation can stifle innovation and necessary change.