the law itself may be inconsistent with substantive…
““the law itself may be inconsistent with substantive justice—it may be inconsistent with what you or I believe is right. The idea that we have a legal system rather than a system that simply says, “Do what is right in each circumstance,” represents a recognition that we must compromise about what we think may be right in order to live in a society with others who have varying visions of what is right.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Legal systems must balance consistent rules with individual notions of right, requiring compromise among diverse moral visions.
In simple terms: Law vs. personal morality; compromise needed
Key Takeaway
Seek balance between rule‑law and ethical judgment.
Themes
justice
law
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- policy making
- community mediation
Key Concepts
Legal theory
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies reconcile differing moral views?
- What limits should law have in moral judgments?
A Different Perspective
Compromise may dilute moral clarity and lead to inconsistent outcomes.