Skip to content

Criminal justice Quote by Michel Foucault

“Today, criminal justice functions and justifies itself only by this perpetual reference to something other than itself, by this unceasing reinscription in non-juridical systems.” quote by Michel Foucault
Download Open image
“Today, criminal justice functions and justifies itself only by this perpetual reference to something other than itself, by this unceasing reinscription in non-juridical systems.”

Michel Foucault

About This Quote

Justice systems justify themselves by constantly referencing external frameworks, avoiding self-examination.

In simple terms: Justice relies on external references.

Key Takeaway

Encourage self-reflection in law.

Themes

law philosophy self‑reference

Mood

theoretical critical

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • legal reform
  • policy making
  • academic study

Key Concepts

critical theory institutional analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can justice be self‑critical?
  • What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective

Self‑reference can be limiting.

3.7 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Michel Foucault

Explore all 272 Michel Foucault quotes

More Criminal justice quotes

Browse all 336 Criminal justice quotes