Appeals Quote by Frederic Bastiat
“As proof of this statement, consider this question: Have the people ever been known to rise against the Court of Appeals, or mob a Justice of the Peace, in order to get higher wages, free credit, tools of production, favorable tariffs, or government-created jobs? Everyone knows perfectly well that such matters are not within the jurisdiction of the Court of Appeals or a Justice of the Peace. And if government were limited to its proper functions, everyone would soon learn that these matters are not within the jurisdiction of the law itself.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Economic Fallacies, 1850
The quote argues that people cannot legally force courts to provide economic benefits, highlighting limits of legal jurisdiction over economic policy.
In simple terms: Courts cannot grant wages or jobs; those are policy matters.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the proper role of law versus economic policy.
Themes
law
economics
government
jurisdiction
politics
Mood
critical
analytical
skeptical
Type
political
economic
legal
When to use this quote
- labor negotiations
- policy advocacy
- court challenges
- public protests
- economic reforms
Key Concepts
legal limits
economic policy
government function
Questions to Reflect On
- What issues should be addressed through law versus political action?
- How do we ensure government respects its limited role?
A Different Perspective
Legal remedies cannot directly set wages or tariffs; political action is required.
