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Dreams Quote by Joel P. Trachtman

“the law itself may be inconsistent with substantive justice—it may be inconsistent with what you or I believe is right. The idea that we have a legal system rather than a system that simply says, “Do what is right in each circumstance,” represents a recognition that we must compromise about what…” quote by Joel P. Trachtman
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““the law itself may be inconsistent with substantive justice—it may be inconsistent with what you or I believe is right. The idea that we have a legal system rather than a system that simply says, “Do what is right in each circumstance,” represents a recognition that we must compromise about what we think may be right in order to live in a society with others who have varying visions of what is right.””

Joel P. Trachtman

About This Quote

Source Article: “Legal Systems and Substantive Justice,” 2015

Legal systems must balance consistent rules with individual notions of right, requiring compromise among diverse moral visions.

In simple terms: Law vs. personal morality; compromise needed

Key Takeaway

Seek balance between rule‑law and ethical judgment.

Themes

justice law ethics

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • court decisions
  • policy making
  • community mediation

Key Concepts

Legal theory moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies reconcile differing moral views?
  • What limits should law have in moral judgments?
A Different Perspective

Compromise may dilute moral clarity and lead to inconsistent outcomes.

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