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Advantage Quote by J. William Fulbright

“When we violate the law ourselves, whatever short-term advantage may be gained, we are obviously encouraging others to violate the law; we thus encourage disorder and instability and thereby do incalculable damage to our own long-term interests.” quote by J. William Fulbright
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“When we violate the law ourselves, whatever short-term advantage may be gained, we are obviously encouraging others to violate the law; we thus encourage disorder and instability and thereby do incalculable damage to our own long-term interests.”

J. William Fulbright

About This Quote

Source Speech: Senate hearing, 1972

Violating law for short gain encourages others, leading to disorder and long‑term damage.

In simple terms: Breaking law harms everyone eventually.

Key Takeaway

U integrity.

Themes

ethics law societal stability

Mood

serious warning

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • Corporate fraud
  • political corruption
  • environmental violations

Key Concepts

Moral hazard public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies deter minor infractions?
  • What long‑term costs arise from widespread lawbreaking?
A Different Perspective

Short‑term gains can seem tempting.

3.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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