Crime Quote by Lysander Spooner
“Vices are those acts by which a man harms himself or his property. Crimes are those acts by which one man harms the person or property of another.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Law of Property, 1855
Vices harm oneself or one's property; crimes harm others' persons or property.
In simple terms: Self‑harm vs. harming others.
Key Takeaway
Distinguish personal vices from criminal acts.
Themes
ethics
law
property
self‑control
society
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
treatise
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal development
- justice reform
- community safety
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
legal theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions are self‑destructive?
- How does society punish crimes vs. vices?
A Different Perspective
Legal definitions evolve over time.
