King Quote by Jeremy Bentham
““Ravaillac assassinated one of the best and wisest of sovereigns, at a time when a good and wise sovereign, a blessing at all times so valuable to a state, was particularly precious: and that to the inhabitants of a populous and extensive empire. He is taken, and doomed to the most excruciating tortures. His son, well persuaded of his being a sincere penitent, and that mankind, in case of his being at large, would have nothing more to fear from him, effectuates his escape.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: 1785, Jeremy Bentham on punishment
A ruler’s cruel punishment is justified by perceived state benefit, yet the suffering inflicted raises moral concerns about justice.
In simple terms: Cruel punishment claimed for state benefit.
Key Takeaway
Question moral cost of harsh justice.
Themes
justice
power
ethics
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal reform
- human rights
- political theory
Key Concepts
punishment
state authority
Questions to Reflect On
- Is suffering ever justified for stability?
- What alternatives exist to punitive measures?
A Different Perspective
Harsh penalties can erode legitimacy.
![“Over the years, he disappeared - like a lot of our leaders disappear. [James Baldwin] was not assassinated, but somehow he went through those assassinations as if it was himself. I think that broke him as well.” quote by Raoul Peck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0c6/raoul-peck-8162_assassination_over-the-years-he-disappeared-like-a-lot_360418.jpg)
