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I don't break the law* made for crooks, when I take away…

“I don't break the law* made for crooks, when I take away my own property - thus I am not obliged to conform to the law made for murderers when I deprive myself of my own life.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“I don't break the law* made for crooks, when I take away my own property - thus I am not obliged to conform to the law made for murderers when I deprive myself of my own life.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that laws designed for harmful actions do not bind those who do not commit such acts, suggesting personal autonomy over unjust statutes.

In simple terms: One should not feel bound by laws that target wrongdoing if they themselves are not wrongdoing.

Key Takeaway

Question the relevance of laws to personal morality.

Themes

autonomy law morality justice individualism

Mood

reflective critical philosophical

Type

ethical political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • political activism
  • legal reform

Key Concepts

social contract ethical relativism civil disobedience

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever feel laws conflict with your personal ethics?
  • When is civil disobedience justified?
A Different Perspective

Laws may be applied unevenly, leading to conflict between personal conscience and societal rules.

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