To make laws that man cannot, and will not obey, serves to…
“To make laws that man cannot, and will not obey, serves to bring all law into contempt.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Laws that are impossible or undesirable to follow breed contempt for all law.
In simple terms: Unobeyable laws undermine respect for law.
Key Takeaway
Create fair, enforceable laws.
Themes
justice
law
civil obedience
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- public compliance
- legal reform
Key Concepts
legitimacy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a law legitimate?
- How can societies balance authority and freedom?
A Different Perspective
People may resist even fair laws if perceived as oppressive.