Thus the law of nature stands as an eternal rule to all…
“Thus the law of nature stands as an eternal rule to all men, legislators as well as others. The rules that they make for other mens actions, must, as well as their own and other mens actions, be conformable to the law of nature, i.e. to the will of God, of which that is a declaration, and the fundamental law of nature being the preservation of mankind, no human sanction can be good, or valid against it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Natural law, rooted in divine will, mandates that human-made laws align with humanity’s preservation; any law contrary is invalid.
In simple terms: Human laws must match natural law to protect humanity.
Key Takeaway
Align legislation with natural law.
Themes
philosophy
law
natural law
theology
human rights
Mood
academic
philosophical
Type
legal
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- judicial review
- policy making
- human rights advocacy
- environmental law
Key Concepts
social contract
ethical governance
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines the “will of God” in modern law?
- How can societies reconcile natural law with pluralistic values?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations of natural law vary across cultures.