No man can be a competent legislator who does not add to…
“No man can be a competent legislator who does not add to an upright intention and a sound judgment a certain degree of knowledge of the subject on which he is to legislate.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Legislators need subject knowledge to combine good intentions and judgment into effective lawmaking.
In simple terms: Lawmakers must understand what they regulate.
Key Takeaway
Study the subject before legislating.
Themes
governance
expertise
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- law drafting
- committee hearings
- public hearings
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
policy
knowledge
judgment
Questions to Reflect On
- What knowledge gaps affect current legislators?
- How can expertise be integrated into lawmaking?
A Different Perspective
Even with knowledge, political pressures can distort decisions.