The one great principle of the English law is, to make…
“The one great principle of the English law is, to make business for itself. There is no other principle distinctly, certainly, and consistently maintained through all its narrow turnings. Viewed by this light it becomes a coherent scheme, and not the monstrous maze the laity are apt to think it. Let them but once clearly perceive that its grand principle is to make business for itself at their expense, and surely they will cease to grumble.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The law is designed to serve its own interests, often at the public’s expense.
In simple terms: Law serves itself, not people.
Key Takeaway
Beware of self‑serving systems.
Themes
law
self‑interest
public trust
bureaucracy
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
cautionary
analytical
When to use this quote
- business contracts
- regulatory compliance
- public policy
- consumer protection
Key Concepts
Legalism
institutional self‑preservation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect your trust in legal institutions?
- Can law be reformed to serve the public?
A Different Perspective
The principle may be overstated; not all law is self‑serving.