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A crime persevered in a thousand centuries ceases to be a…

“A crime persevered in a thousand centuries ceases to be a crime, and becomes a virtue. This is the law of custom, and custom supersedes all other forms of law.” quote by Mark Twain
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“A crime persevered in a thousand centuries ceases to be a crime, and becomes a virtue. This is the law of custom, and custom supersedes all other forms of law.”

Mark Twain

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

When a crime becomes widely accepted over centuries, it transforms into a virtue, showing how customs reshape moral law.

In simple terms: Custom can turn crime into virtue over time.

Key Takeaway

Beware of changing norms.

Themes

ethics law custom

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal reform
  • cultural change
  • social movements
  • education

Key Concepts

philosophy history

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we discern harmful customs?
  • When should laws resist custom?
A Different Perspective

Customs can be harmful despite acceptance.

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