Some men look at constitutions with sanctimonious…
“Some men look at constitutions with sanctimonious reverence, and deem them like the ark of the Covenant, too sacred to be touched. They ascribe to the men of the preceding age a wisdom more than human, and suppose what they did to be beyond amendment.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Constitutions are often revered as untouchable, but they should be adaptable.
In simple terms: Constitutions are treated as sacred but need change.
Key Takeaway
Treat foundational documents as living, not immutable.
Themes
law
tradition
change
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative reform
- constitutional amendment debates
Key Concepts
constitutionalism
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When should a constitution be amended?
- How to balance tradition with reform?
A Different Perspective
Reverence may prevent necessary progress.