Doe Quote by John Paul Stevens
“When the commission finds that a pig has entered the parlor, the exercise of its regulatory power does not depend on proof that the pig is obscene.”
About This Quote
Regulatory authority can act on a premise even without definitive proof of wrongdoing, emphasizing precaution over certainty.
In simple terms: Regulators may act without full proof.
Precautionary regulation overrides evidentiary burden.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- food safety inspections
- financial market oversight
- public health emergencies
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- Implement risk‑based compliance checks
- Adopt early‑warning monitoring systems
Questions to Reflect On
- When should regulators require proof before acting?
- How can balance be struck between precaution and liberty?
May lead to over‑regulation and stifle innovation if applied indiscriminately.