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But if one Subject giveth Counsell to another, to do…

“But if one Subject giveth Counsell to another, to do anything contrary to the Lawes, whether that Counsell proceed from evil intention, or from ignorance onely, it is punishable by the Common-wealth; because igorance of the Law, is no good excuse, where every man is bound to take notice of the…” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“But if one Subject giveth Counsell to another, to do anything contrary to the Lawes, whether that Counsell proceed from evil intention, or from ignorance onely, it is punishable by the Common-wealth; because igorance of the Law, is no good excuse, where every man is bound to take notice of the Lawes to which he is subject.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

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

Ignorance of law does not excuse breaking it; everyone must know the laws they are subject to.

In simple terms: Not knowing the law isn’t an excuse.

Key Takeaway

Learn and follow the law.

Themes

law responsibility justice

Mood

serious instructive

Type

ethical legal

When to use this quote

  • citizenship
  • government policy
  • education

Key Concepts

legal duty social contract ignorance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can you take to stay informed?
  • How do you handle unknown regulations?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may be inaccessible to some.

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