To declare that in the administration of criminal law the…
“To declare that in the administration of criminal law the end justifies the means to declare that the Government may commit crimes in order to secure conviction of a private criminal would bring terrible retribution.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Justifying illegal means for a perceived good undermines the rule of law.
In simple terms: Ends do not justify illegal methods.
Key Takeaway
Uphold legal integrity over expediency.
Themes
ethics
law
justice
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- law enforcement
- judicial decisions
- public policy
- civil rights activism
Key Concepts
rule of law
government authority
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it acceptable to bend legal rules?
- What safeguards prevent abuse?
A Different Perspective
Balancing security and rights is complex and context‑dependent.