Let it not, therefore, be said that the Sovereign is not…
“Let it not, therefore, be said that the Sovereign is not subject to the laws of his State; since the contrary is a true proposition of the right of nations, which flattery has sometimes attacked but good princes have always defended as the tutelary divinity of their dominions. How much more legitimate is it to say with the wise Plato, that the perfect felicity of a kingdom consists in the obedience of subjects to their prince, and of the prince to the laws, and in the laws being just and constantly directed to the public good!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A ruler must obey laws, and laws must serve the public good; mutual obedience ensures legitimacy.
In simple terms: Rulers and laws must both be just and serve people.
Key Takeaway
Uphold lawfulness and public welfare.
Themes
political philosophy
justice
governance
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government policy
- citizen rights
- constitutional design
Key Concepts
social contract
legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens enforce just laws?
- What mechanisms ensure mutual obedience?
A Different Perspective
Power can corrupt without accountability.