Buddhism Quote by Gore Vidal
“It never occurred to any Enlightenment figure in the eighteenth century that law was not preferable to man.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Enlightenment and the Law, 1975
Enlightenment thinkers assumed law inherently served humanity, overlooking its potential to oppress.
In simple terms: Enlightenment trusted law blindly.
Question law’s role in society.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal reform
- civil rights activism
- policy analysis
- education curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does law reflect power?
- Can law be both tool and tyrant?
Law can also protect freedoms, not just oppress.