Bleak house Quote by Charles Dickens
“The one great principle of the English law is, to make business for itself. There is no other principle distinctly, certainly, and consistently maintained through all its narrow turnings.”
About This Quote
The statement claims that English law’s primary purpose is self‑preservation, serving its own interests above all.
In simple terms: Law exists to sustain itself.
Key Takeaway
Recognize institutional self‑interest.
Themes
law
self‑interest
institution
politics
power
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- legal reform
- government accountability
- public debate
- academic study
Key Concepts
self‑preservation
legal theory
institutional critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Is self‑preservation compatible with justice?
- How can law balance self‑interest and public good?
A Different Perspective
It ignores the law’s role in protecting citizens.
