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Yes, as long as it is admitted that the law may be…

“Yes, as long as it is admitted that the law may be diverted from its true mission, that it may violate property instead of securing it, everybody will be wanting to manufacture law, either to defend himself against plunder, or to organize it for his own profit.” quote by Frédéric Bastiat
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““Yes, as long as it is admitted that the law may be diverted from its true mission, that it may violate property instead of securing it, everybody will be wanting to manufacture law, either to defend himself against plunder, or to organize it for his own profit.””

Frédéric Bastiat

About This Quote

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

Law should protect property, not be twisted for personal gain; otherwise it becomes a tool for plunder.

In simple terms: Law must safeguard property, not serve selfish ends.

Key Takeaway

Guard against laws that favor the powerful.

Themes

justice property law ethics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • activism
  • public policy analysis
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

property rights legal theory political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens ensure laws remain just?
  • What checks prevent law from being exploited?
A Different Perspective

Complex legal systems can obscure intent.

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