It is better, saith the law, to suffer a mischief that is…
“It is better, saith the law, to suffer a mischief that is peculiar to one, than an inconvenience that may prejudice many.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
It is preferable for one person to endure a unique wrongdoing than a minor inconvenience that harms many.
In simple terms: Prefer single harm over widespread minor harm.
Key Takeaway
Choose the lesser collective impact.
Themes
law
ethics
consequences
utilitarianism
Mood
serious
reflective
analytical
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- policy making
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
moral calculus
public interest
individual rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it just to sacrifice one for many?
- What defines “peculiar” mischief?
A Different Perspective
May ignore the severity of the individual’s suffering.