Contempt Quote by Elizabeth Cady Stanton
“To make laws that man cannot, and will not obey, serves to bring all law into contempt.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Women's Rights Convention, 1869
Laws that are impossible or undesirable to follow breed contempt for all law.
In simple terms: Unobeyable laws undermine respect for law.
Key Takeaway
Create fair, enforceable laws.
Themes
justice
law
civil obedience
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- public compliance
- legal reform
Key Concepts
legitimacy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a law legitimate?
- How can societies balance authority and freedom?
A Different Perspective
People may resist even fair laws if perceived as oppressive.
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