There has grown up in the minds of certain groups in this…
““There has grown up in the minds of certain groups in this country the notion that because a man or corporation has made a profit out of the public for a number of years, the government and the courts are charged with the duty of guaranteeing such profit in the future, even in the face of changing circumstances and contrary to the public interest. This strange doctrine is not supported by statute or common law. Neither individuals nor corporations have any right to come into court and ask that the clock of history be stopped, or turned back.””
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 profit does not create a legal entitlement for future guarantees, especially when public interest changes.
In simple terms: Profit isn’t a legal right to future protection.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions about profit‑based rights.
Themes
law
public policy
economics
rights
interest
government
Mood
critical
analytical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- court cases
- legislative debates
- policy analysis
- corporate lobbying
- public advocacy
Key Concepts
property rights
public interest
statutory limits
common law
corporate entitlement
Questions to Reflect On
- How should law balance profit incentives with changing public needs?
- What mechanisms can prevent profit‑driven entitlement?
A Different Perspective
Legal doctrines evolve; profit may not be protected indefinitely.