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Hanged Quote by Grover Cleveland

“No man has ever yet been hanged for breaking the spirit of a law.” quote by Grover Cleveland
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“No man has ever yet been hanged for breaking the spirit of a law.”

Grover Cleveland

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to the Senate, 1885

Highlighting that laws should not be broken without purpose; breaking a law's spirit is not punishable.

In simple terms: Breaking a law's spirit isn’t a crime.

Key Takeaway

Consider the intent behind actions.

Themes

law justice civil disobedience

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • protests
  • civil rights movements
  • whistleblowing

Key Concepts

ethical reasoning legal theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is breaking a law justified?
  • What are the limits of civil disobedience?
A Different Perspective

Legal consequences may still apply despite intent.

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