Bill of rights Quote by L. Neil Smith
“The Bill of Rights isn't about us, it's about them . It isn't a list of things we're permitted to do, it's a list of things they aren't allowed even to consider.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Probability Broach by L. Neil Smith, 1979
Rights protect minorities; they are limits on what others may do, not permissions for individuals.
In simple terms: Rights are limits on others, not freedoms for self.
Key Takeaway
Respect others' boundaries.
Themes
rights
liberty
government
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legal drafting
- policy debate
- civil rights activism
Key Concepts
political philosophy
individualism
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance protection and autonomy?
- When do rights become over‑regulation?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on restriction can stifle personal freedom.
![“[The Bill of Rights is] designed to protect individuals and minorities against the tyranny of the majority, but it's also designed to protect the people against bureaucracy, against the government.” quote by Laurence Tribe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d34/laurence-tribe-32095_bill-of-rights_the-bill-of-rights-is-designed-to-protec_464266.jpg)
