Constitution Quote by Jon Ronson
“When we watch courtroom dramas, we tend to identify with the kindhearted defense attorney, but give us the power, and we become like hanging judges.”
About This Quote
Source Book: So You've Been Publicly Shamed, 2015
Empathy for defense lawyers can shift to harsh judgment when given authority.
In simple terms: Authority can corrupt empathy.
Key Takeaway
Beware power’s bias.
Themes
justice
authority
empathy
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
psychological
When to use this quote
- jury duty
- legal advocacy
- leadership roles
- public speaking
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How would you maintain fairness in authority?
- When have you felt empathy turn to judgment?
A Different Perspective
Power may amplify personal biases.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
