Skip to content

2 amendment Quote by Cesare Beccaria

“The laws that forbid the carrying of arms...disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes. Can it be supposed that those who have the courage to violate the most sacred laws of humanity...will respect the less important and arbitrary ones... Such laws make things worse…” quote by Cesare Beccaria
Download Open image
“The laws that forbid the carrying of arms...disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes. Can it be supposed that those who have the courage to violate the most sacred laws of humanity...will respect the less important and arbitrary ones... Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants, they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man.”

Cesare Beccaria

About This Quote

Source Book: On Crimes and Punishments, Cesare Beccaria, 1764

It argues that disarming law‑abiding citizens while criminals remain armed worsens safety and encourages crime.

In simple terms: Disarming the innocent while criminals stay armed is harmful.

Key Takeaway

Consider balanced self‑defense policies.

Themes

law justice self‑defense public safety

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical policy‑oriented

When to use this quote

  • personal security planning
  • policy debate
  • community safety programs

Key Concepts

rights deterrence social order

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should citizens have the right to bear arms for protection?
  • How can societies protect both rights and safety?
A Different Perspective

Implementation may be hindered by political resistance.

2.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Cesare Beccaria

Explore all 17 Cesare Beccaria quotes

More 2 amendment quotes

Browse all 64 2 amendment quotes