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Community Quote by Cesare Beccaria

“If every individual be bound to society, society is equally bound to him, by a contract which from its nature equally binds both parties. This obligation, which descends from the throne to the cottage, and equally binds the highest and lowest of mankind, signifies nothing more than that it is the…” quote by Cesare Beccaria
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““  If every individual be bound to society, society is equally bound to him, by a contract which from its nature equally binds both parties. This obligation, which descends from the throne to the cottage, and equally binds the highest and lowest of mankind, signifies nothing more than that it is the interest of all, that conventions, which are useful to the greatest number, should be punctually observed. The violation of this compact by any individual is an introduction to anarchy.””

Cesare Beccaria

About This Quote

Source Treat: On Crimes and Punishments, 1764

Society and individuals are bound by mutual obligations that protect the common good; breaking them leads to disorder.

In simple terms: People and society must keep mutual promises for stability.

Key Takeaway

Uphold shared duties.

Themes

social contract law order justice

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • community projects
  • legal reforms
  • public debates

Key Concepts

mutual obligation social cohesion anarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we ensure contracts are fair to all?
  • What mechanisms prevent abuse of power?
A Different Perspective

Enforcement can be uneven, leading to power imbalances.

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