'I beseech ye . . . , think that ye may be mistaken.' I…
“'I beseech ye . . . , think that ye may be mistaken.' I should like to have that written over the portals of every church, every school, and every courthouse, and, may I say, of every legislative body in the United States. I should like to have every court begin, 'I beseech ye . . . , think that we may be mistaken.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Institutions should acknowledge their fallibility, encouraging humility and openness to error in law and governance.
In simple terms: Embrace institutional humility.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and admit mistakes.
Themes
law
humility
governance
error
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- legislative debates
Key Concepts
institutional accountability
Practical Applications
- add disclaimer statements in official proceedings
Questions to Reflect On
- How does admitting error affect public trust?
- What mechanisms ensure humility in decision‑making?