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Oh, don’t be absurd, man.' The Prime Minister sat back in…

“Oh, don’t be absurd, man.' The Prime Minister sat back in his chair. 'Come on. We can’t just ban a thing because we can’t control it.' The minister responsible for health and safety looked startled. 'I don’t see why not. It’s never stopped us before.” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““Oh, don’t be absurd, man.' The Prime Minister sat back in his chair. 'Come on. We can’t just ban a thing because we can’t control it.' The minister responsible for health and safety looked startled. 'I don’t see why not. It’s never stopped us before.””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

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

Authority should not ban something merely because it is hard to control; regulation must be justified beyond fear of loss.

In simple terms: Don’t ban just because it’s hard to manage.

Key Takeaway

Consider reasoned regulation, not fear.

Themes

governance regulation risk management

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public health policy
  • technology regulation
  • environmental law
  • consumer protection

Key Concepts

libertarianism public policy ethical reasoning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risks justify a ban?
  • How can we balance safety and liberty?
A Different Perspective

Banning can stifle innovation and personal freedom.

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