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Advantage Quote by Aristotle

“When we look at the matter from another point of view, great caution would seem to be required. For the habit of lightly changing the laws is an evil, and, when the advantage is small, some errors both of lawgivers and rulers had better be left; the citizen will not gain so much by making the…” quote by Aristotle
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“When we look at the matter from another point of view, great caution would seem to be required. For the habit of lightly changing the laws is an evil, and, when the advantage is small, some errors both of lawgivers and rulers had better be left; the citizen will not gain so much by making the change as he will lose by the habit of disobedience.”

Aristotle

About This Quote

Source Treat: Politics by Aristotle, 4th century BC

Changing laws lightly leads to disorder; caution is needed when altering legal frameworks, especially for minor gains.

In simple terms: Changing laws lightly creates disorder; be cautious.

Key Takeaway

Avoid unnecessary legal changes.

Themes

law governance caution stability citizenry

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • legislative reform
  • policy making
  • judicial decisions
  • administrative adjustments
  • public administration

Key Concepts

political philosophy legal theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the change worth the loss of trust?
  • How can stability be maintained while adapting laws?
A Different Perspective

Small benefits may not outweigh the erosion of respect for law.

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