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Where aspirations outstrip opportunities, law-abiding…

“Where aspirations outstrip opportunities, law-abiding society becomes the victim. Attitudes of contempt toward the law are forged in this crucible and form the inner core of the beliefs of organized adult crime.” quote by Robert Kennedy
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“Where aspirations outstrip opportunities, law-abiding society becomes the victim. Attitudes of contempt toward the law are forged in this crucible and form the inner core of the beliefs of organized adult crime.”

Robert Kennedy

About This Quote

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

When people feel their ambitions exceed what the law permits, they resent the law and may turn to crime.

In simple terms: Unmet goals breed lawlessness.

Key Takeaway

Address inequality to prevent crime.

Themes

justice inequality crime society

Mood

concerned critical

Type

political social commentary

When to use this quote

  • urban policy
  • education reform
  • community policing
  • economic development

Key Concepts

social contract psychology of law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance ambition and legal opportunity?
  • What policies reduce contempt for law?
A Different Perspective

Not all resentment leads to crime; structural factors matter.

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