Society will be obeyed; if you refuse obedience, you must…
“Society will be obeyed; if you refuse obedience, you must take the consequences. Society has only one law, and that is custom. Even religion itself is socially powerful only just so far as it has custom on its side.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society's rules are enforced by custom; defying them brings consequences.
In simple terms: Custom enforces obedience; breaking it has costs.
Key Takeaway
Respect social norms or accept fallout.
Themes
society
custom
obedience
consequences
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political protest
- legal reform
- cultural change
Key Concepts
social contract
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What customs limit you?
- When is civil disobedience justified?
A Different Perspective
Custom can suppress progress if unchallenged.