It is preposterous to suppose that the people of one…
“It is preposterous to suppose that the people of one generation can lay down the best and only rules of government for all who are to come after them, and under unforeseen contingencies.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
No single generation can set permanent rules for future societies because circumstances always change.
In simple terms: Rules for tomorrow can’t be fixed today.
Design flexible, adaptable governance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- constitutional drafting
- policy reform
- long‑term planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can laws stay relevant over time?
- What mechanisms ensure adaptability?
Future conditions may be unpredictable.