Command Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“Law is the highest reason implanted in Nature, which commands what ought to be done and forbids the opposite.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Philosophical Treatise, 1st century BC
Cicero argues that law reflects natural reason, dictating what is right and prohibiting the opposite, grounding morality in universal principles.
In simple terms: Law follows natural reason, defining right and wrong.
Key Takeaway
Align actions with universal moral principles.
Themes
philosophy
law
ethics
natural law
morality
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal education
- policy making
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
rationalism
universal ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is law always aligned with nature?
- How do we resolve conflicts between law and morality?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations of “natural law” vary across cultures.
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