Consequence Quote by Frederic Bastiat
“It is indeed a singular thing that people wish to pass laws to nullify the disagreeable consequences that the law of responsibility entails. Will they never realize that they do not eliminate these consequences but merely pass them along to other people? The result is one injustice the more and one moral the less.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: What is Seen and What is Unseen, 1850
People think laws can erase undesirable outcomes, but they merely shift responsibility to others, increasing injustice and diminishing morality.
In simple terms: Laws shift blame, not remove problems.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden costs of legislation.
Themes
justice
responsibility
law
morality
consequences
Mood
skeptical
Type
cautious
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- legal reform
- public debate
- activism
Key Concepts
externalities
moral hazard
social contract
Practical Applications
- Laws cannot fully prevent negative outcomes
- they may create new ones.
Questions to Reflect On
- ifting
A Different Perspective
What responsibilities are being transferred by this law?;How can we address the root cause instead?
