Our government... teaches the whole people by its example…
“Our government... teaches the whole people by its example. If the government becomes the lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for law; it invites every man to become a law unto himself; it invites anarchy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
When leaders break laws, they erode public respect and invite disorder.
In simple terms: Law‑breaking leaders cause loss of respect.
Key Takeaway
Demand integrity from authority.
Themes
leadership
law
societal trust
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal conduct
- government policy
Key Concepts
social contract
anarchic risk
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal behavior influence societal norms?
- What can citizens do to uphold lawfulness?
A Different Perspective
Even small violations can undermine the rule of law.