Skip to content

Easy Quote by Charles Caleb Colton

“The science of legislation is like that of medicine in one respect: that it is far more easy to point out what will do harm than what will do good.” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
Download Open image
“The science of legislation is like that of medicine in one respect: that it is far more easy to point out what will do harm than what will do good.”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

Source Book: Essays on the Art of Living, 1820

Legislation, like medicine, more easily identifies harmful effects than beneficial ones.

In simple terms: It’s easier to spot what hurts than what helps.

Key Takeaway

Focus on preventing harm.

Themes

policy medicine risk assessment

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advisory critical

When to use this quote

  • lawmaking
  • healthcare policy
  • environmental regulation
  • financial oversight

Key Concepts

public health regulatory theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can policymakers better identify beneficial outcomes?
  • What tools help reveal hidden benefits?
A Different Perspective

Good intentions can be overlooked in favor of avoiding negatives.

4.2 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Charles Caleb Colton

Explore all 778 Charles Caleb Colton quotes

More Easy quotes

Browse all 13,158 Easy quotes