Law Quote by Frederic Bastiat
“As long as it is admitted that the law may be diverted from its true purpose--that it may violate property instead of protecting it--then everyone will want to participate in making the law, either to protect himself against plunder or to use it for plunder.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: What is Property? by Frederic Bastiat, 1850
When law serves private greed instead of protecting rights, people will manipulate it for personal gain.
In simple terms: Law can be twisted for selfish ends.
Key Takeaway
Guard rights, prevent exploitation.
Themes
law
property
greed
justice
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political reform
- legal advocacy
- civil rights activism
Key Concepts
liberalism
public policy
economic theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure laws protect rather than enable plunder?
- What safeguards prevent legal manipulation?
A Different Perspective
If property protections are weak, exploitation may persist despite reforms.
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