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Law is made for man and not man for the law. Wherever we…

“Law is made for man and not man for the law. Wherever we can be sure that the most valuable interests of a nation require that we should decide one way, that way we ought to decide.” quote by William Godwin
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“Law is made for man and not man for the law. Wherever we can be sure that the most valuable interests of a nation require that we should decide one way, that way we ought to decide.”

William Godwin

About This Quote

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

Law should serve humanity, not bind it; decisions must reflect a nation's vital interests.

In simple terms: Law exists to help people, not control them.

Key Takeaway

Align laws with human needs.

Themes

law justice governance

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • judicial reform
  • national strategy

Key Concepts

social contract public interest legitimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure laws stay adaptable to human needs?
  • What mechanisms protect against overreach?
A Different Perspective

Laws can become rigid and ignore minority rights.

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