Skip to content

Action Quote by Aristotle

“Even when laws have been written down, they ought not always to remain unaltered. As in other sciences, so in politics, it is impossible that all things should be precisely set down in writing; for enactments must be universal, but actions are concerned with particulars. Hence we infer that…” quote by Aristotle
Download Open image
“Even when laws have been written down, they ought not always to remain unaltered. As in other sciences, so in politics, it is impossible that all things should be precisely set down in writing; for enactments must be universal, but actions are concerned with particulars. Hence we infer that sometimes and in certain cases laws may be changed.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Source Treat: Politics, Book 3, 4th century BC

Laws should be flexible to address specific situations, not rigidly fixed in writing.

In simple terms: Laws need flexibility for real cases.

Key Takeaway

Allow laws to adapt as needed.

Themes

law flexibility politics principles

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • court rulings
  • policy reform
  • administrative decisions

Key Concepts

jurisprudence pragmatism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance consistency with adaptability?
  • When should exceptions be codified?
A Different Perspective

Rigid laws can ignore unique circumstances.

3.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Aristotle

Explore all 1,545 Aristotle quotes

More Action quotes

Browse all 14,943 Action quotes