Disobedience Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“Government implies the power of making laws. It is essential to the idea of a law, that it be attended with a sanction; or, in other words, a penalty or punishment for disobedience.”
About This Quote
Source Document: Federalist Papers, Alexander Hamilton, 1787
Laws require enforceable penalties to be effective; authority depends on sanctioned consequences.
In simple terms: Laws need punishments to work.
Key Takeaway
Ensure laws have clear sanctions.
Themes
law
authority
sanction
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- policy enforcement
- public safety
Key Concepts
Political theory
criminal justice
governance
Questions to Reflect On
- What balance of punishment and rehabilitation works best?
- How do sanctions affect compliance?
A Different Perspective
Over‑punishment can erode trust.
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