Anticipate Quote by Marguerite Yourcenar
“Laws change more slowly than custom, and though dangerous when they fall behind the times are more dangerous still when they presume to anticipate custom.”
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Abyss”, 1968
Laws evolve slower than customs; dangerous when outdated, but more perilous when they try to predict customs prematurely.
In simple terms: Legal change lags behind culture, and mis‑anticipating customs is riskier.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize adaptable lawmaking that respects evolving customs.
Themes
law
custom
society
change
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
policy
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- social research
- community engagement
- legal education
Key Concepts
legislation
cultural dynamics
anticipatory governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can legislators better sense cultural shifts?
- What safeguards prevent premature legal changes?
A Different Perspective
Predicting customs can lead to misguided laws that ignore lived realities.
![“Technology may change rapidly, but people change slowly. The principals [of design] come from understanding of people. They remain true forever.” quote by Donald A. Norman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/19d/donald-a-norman-6862_design_technology-may-change-rapidly-but-people_3007475.jpg)
