Body Quote by Learned Hand
“'I beseech ye . . . , think that ye may be mistaken.' I should like to have that written over the portals of every church, every school, and every courthouse, and, may I say, of every legislative body in the United States. I should like to have every court begin, 'I beseech ye . . . , think that we may be mistaken.'”
About This Quote
Institutions should acknowledge their fallibility, encouraging humility and openness to error in law and governance.
In simple terms: Embrace institutional humility.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and admit mistakes.
Themes
law
humility
governance
error
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- legislative debates
Key Concepts
institutional accountability
Practical Applications
- add disclaimer statements in official proceedings
Questions to Reflect On
- How does admitting error affect public trust?
- What mechanisms ensure humility in decision‑making?
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