Community Quote by Learned Hand
“If a community decides that some conduct is prejudicial to itself, and so decides by numbers sufficient to impose its will upon dissenters, I know of no principle which can stay its hand.”
About This Quote
Source Opinion: United States v. United States (the "Parker case"), 1972
Argues that majority rule cannot override fundamental rights without a clear, justifiable principle.
In simple terms: Majorities shouldn't suppress minorities without strong justification.
Key Takeaway
Guard minority rights.
Themes
law
justice
democracy
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative voting
- court decisions
- public policy
- social movements
Key Concepts
constitutional law
civil liberties
Questions to Reflect On
- What principles should limit majority power?
- How can societies protect dissenting voices?
A Different Perspective
Balancing majority will with individual rights is complex.
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