Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes…
“Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence: nor is the law less stable than the fact.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Facts remain constant regardless of desires, and law must be based on objective reality, not personal wishes.
In simple terms: Facts are unchanged by wishes; law follows facts.
Key Takeaway
Base decisions on evidence, not hopes.
Themes
truth
law
objectivity
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- legal judgments
- scientific research
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What facts do you ignore because they challenge your preferences?
- How can societies enforce evidence‑based policies?
A Different Perspective
People may resist facts when they conflict with emotions or beliefs.