The law is equal before all of us; but we are not all…
“The law is equal before all of us; but we are not all equal before the law. Virtually there is one law for the rich and another for the poor, one law for the cunning and another for the simple, one law for the forceful and another for the feeble, one law for the ignorant and another for the learned, one law for the brave and another for the timid, and within family limits one law for the parent and no law at all for the child.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote highlights that while law claims universal equality, in practice it is applied unequally based on wealth, intelligence, power, and social status.
In simple terms: Law claims equality but treats people differently.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge legal bias.
Themes
justice
inequality
power
law
society
Mood
critical
reflective
concerned
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- courtroom decisions
- policy making
- advocacy
- education
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Legal disparity
social stratification
ethical critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal bias influence legal outcomes?
- What reforms could ensure truly equal law?
A Different Perspective
Legal systems can be resistant to reform and entrenched interests may preserve bias.